Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Richard Walden Obituary
Richard Lynn Walden, 66, passed away unexpectedly of a cardiac related issue on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 in the Washington Hospital.
Also known as "Chef Rick" or "Dumpy," Richard was born and raised in Burgettstown. After graduating from Union High School in 1973, and attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) until 1975, Richard worked at J&L Steel until 1982. He then attended the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh. Upon graduation, he relocated to Fort Myers, Fla., working at Sun Dial Beach and Tennis Resort on Sanibel Island.
After returning to Burgettstown in 1993, Richard and his brother Henry joined together to form "It's a Secret" cheesecake company. During that time, Richard worked at Burgettstown restaurants Bergs and Bad Dogs. In 2011, Richard and his sister Penny opened Walden's Restaurant.
In addition to cooking, Richard loved music and mentoring others. While in school, he was a member of the band, chorus, and the church choir. And in his later years, he LOVED to sing at Karaoke. He was an active member of the Big Brothers and Sisters program while attending IUP and living in Florida.
Richard is survived by his siblings, Charles Jr. (Marcella) of Burgettstown, Phyllis "Penny" of Burgettstown, William (Heather) of Columbus, Ohio, Kelly Walden-Davis of Los Angeles, Calif., Melissa Davis of Burgettstown; his nephews, Robert Walden (Sarah DeFino) and Jarod Davis; his nieces Brianna, Jordan, and Isabella Davis, and great niece Rowan Alice Walden.
In addition to this, Richard leaves behind an extended family through relationships that he developed in the community, but especially from cooking at the family's restaurant and other restaurants he worked in.
Friends will be received from 2 p.m. until the time of a Memorial Service, officiated by Rev. Cinda Isler at 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 23, in the Lee & Martin Funeral Home, 73 Highland Avenue, Burgettstown, PA 15021.
Those wishing to remember Rick in a special way can make a memorial donation in his memory to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Walden
Michael Gragan
November 10, 2021
I was surprised to learn of Rick´s passing. He was a great guy and fantastic chef, and he will be sorely missed. My condolences to the Walden family.
Karen and Buz Jones
October 24, 2021
We loved our biking breaks at Waldens. It was a treat to stop and eat with the `family´ at your restaurant. Thinking of all of you. So sad.
Courtney Lowe
October 24, 2021
You've been a member of my family for a long time. You have a heart of gold - the most amazing selfless man I know. We won't be the same without you. You were one of the good ones. We love you. You'll be deeply missed. I'll cherish every memory of you. You will not be forgotten.
Denise Lewellyn
October 24, 2021
Dearest Penny,
it's Sunday and I just learned of Rick's passing. I am so saddened and
want you all to know that you're in my thoughts and prayers. Rick was such a wonderful human being and so gifted. I will certainly miss him---his presence just let you know that everything was under control. He is safe in the arms of our Savior. God Bless you all.
Cathy Donohue
October 23, 2021
Penny, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sending you a virtual hug.
Heather Walden
October 21, 2021
After Bill and I were married, the first time I saw you I got a big hug and the first Lil Sis of my life. You welcomed me and always made me laugh. I wish I'd told you how much that meant to me. I told you today. I hope you heard me. Love you Rick Walden
Judy matijevich/,Kashuba
October 21, 2021
dearest dumpy, you'll be forever missed,
Bernie Slay
October 21, 2021
Rick was a special person to know and I had great memories with him. We sure lost a good guy for sure.he will be missed.
Joan Casey
October 21, 2021
Richard was a member of the Burgettstown Presbyterian Church Family
Joan Casey
October 21, 2021
Sincere Condolences to Penny & Ricks Family
Bernadette Gariglio
October 21, 2021
Was a pleasure knowing you, a joy in our lives! Rest In Peace with our Heavenly Father! Until we meet again! Bernadette and Ben Gariglio.
Lorie Trevena
October 21, 2021
He was a very special guy he was well love and missed
Patty Dowiak
October 21, 2021
The Dowiak's wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Ricky's family. Always friendly and kind, we enjoyed our interactions with Rick while dining at his restaurant eating his delicious food. He will be missed by us and this community. Rest in peace my friend.
Susan Griffith
October 21, 2021
I am so sorry to hear this! Rick was the best guy & friend. He will be so so missed.
John Zuemie
October 21, 2021
So very sorry to hear this sad news. My sympathies to the entire family.
Leo Donovall
October 21, 2021
A great friend to all, Rick will be sorely missed. Rest peacefully my friend, until we meet again.
Marilyn Cipranic
October 20, 2021
Dear Walden Family
My deepest in the loss of your brother. He was a great guy and a wonderful cook. My favorite item on the menu was his French Toast. He certainly will be missed. Rest In Peace Rick.
Showing 1 - 18 of 18 results
Make a Donation
in Richard Walden's name
Memorial Events
for Richard Walden
Oct
23
Funeral services provided by:
Slater Funeral & Cremation Services Inc. of Burgettstown73 Highland Ave, Burgettstown, PA 15021
How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Richard Walden's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
