Richard Eugene Hembree

Richard Eugene Hembree, 77, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 20, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of his cherished family.

Born on May 16, 1948, in Fort Collins, Colorado, Richard was the youngest of five children born to James Orville and Bernadine Marie Hembree. He was raised in the close-knit communities of Milliken and Johnstown, where he cultivated the values of hard work, integrity, and family-principles that would guide him throughout his life. A proud graduate of Roosevelt High School, Class of 1967, Richard carried his hometown pride wherever he went.

That same year, Richard married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Cheryl Schwalm. Together, they shared a remarkable 58 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and joy. Their bond was an enduring example of love, friendship, and mutual respect, and their journey together was filled with adventure, laughter, and enduring memories.

Shortly after marrying, Richard answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. He served with honor in Vietnam from February 1968 to February 1969, a year that shaped his resilience and deepened his appreciation for life and family. His bravery and dedication to his fellow soldiers were a quiet source of pride he carried with him always.

Following his military service, Richard returned home and began a long and rewarding career with Kodak, where he worked for 34 years. His dedication, precision, and work ethic earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Outside of work, Richard had a deep love for model trains and cars, hobbies that brought him joy and connected him to a like-minded community of enthusiasts. In retirement, he and Cheryl embraced life on the road, traveling across the country in their beloved 5th wheel. They explored new places, made lifelong friends, and shared countless sunsets together. From the serenity of the Rockies to the beauty of Hawaii and the excitement of ocean cruises, their adventures were many and their hearts always full.

Richard's greatest pride, however, was his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a doting great-grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and love that will live on in those he touched.

He is survived by his three beloved children: Kimberly Ann & Brian Walls, Richard Michael & Heather Hembree, and Travis James & Jeannie Hembree; nine cherished grandchildren: Samantha & Adam Derea, Dylan & Ashlee Bohl, Hannah Porter, Michael & Sierra Hembree, Cole Hembree, Bailey Hembree, Genesis Hembree, Gerad Hembree, and Garret Hembree; and four treasured great-grandchildren: Aspyn Bohl, Ryker Bohl, Tytan Bohl, and Lilith Derea. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members and close friends who will forever remember his warm smile, generous spirit, and quiet wisdom.

Richard's life was one of service, love, and quiet strength. He will be dearly missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored by all who had the privilege of knowing him.