Richard Vinton Goelzer

Richard Vinton Goelzer, 80, of Amarillo, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025.

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 South Georgia, Amarillo, Texas, at 4:00 PM on Monday, June 30, 2025, with Chaplain Larry Virnau officiating.

Born on September 3, 1944, in Marlin, Texas, to Robert and Genevieve Suttle Goelzer. Richard was a Chilton High School and Baylor University graduate. He carried a lifelong passion for Texas football, especially his beloved Baylor Bears, and a deep appreciation for Texas history. On Sundays, Richard thoroughly enjoyed watching Texas Country Reporter and The Texas Bucket List.

Richard enjoyed music and dance and although he never received formal training, he had an amazing baritone voice. One highlight early in his adult life was a stint in Fiddler on the Roof with Amarillo Little Theater.

Richard's career began in the land development department of Santa Fe Railroad in Dallas TX. In 1969, he transferred to Amarillo, continuing with Santa Fe until 1982, when he joined Toot 'N Totum Corporation in administration, where he remained until his retirement.

Richard was the friendly and outgoing type, ideal for his post-retirement gig at the Rick Husband International Airport. It was here that Richard worked part-time, assisting travelers in need of wheelchair assistance in the terminal. However, his real job was visiting with all the locals coming and going, and making friends with strangers. Even without his own cell phone, because he never owned one, he always took the opportunity to chat with people and take pictures with them. It was his "version of social media".

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Genevieve Goelzer; his sisters, Rose Marie Fitte and Virginia Lynne Engelke; his brothers, Robert Goelzer Jr. and Dr. Ronald Goelzer; and his wife of 18 years, Sherrill Weatherbee Goelzer.

He is survived by his former wife, Daria Ann Hill, and their sons, Jeremy Goelzer (Tonya) of Amarillo and Jason Goelzer (Dianna) of Lubbock. Richard also leaves behind 4 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Betty Ann Hinton, along with 16 nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of AccentCare Hospice for their compassionate care during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to AccentCare Home Hospice of Amarillo, TX.