Richard L. Hardesty, age 87, of Troy, OH passed away on Sunday, April 17, 2016 at the Upper Valley Medical Center, Troy, OH.  Richard was born on January 25, 1929 in Piqua, OH to the late Ray S. and Mary Golda (Large) Hardesty.

Richard is survived by his wife of 36 years, Lois G. (Petty) Hardesty; son: Kenneth (Cathy) Hardesty of Hamilton, OH; daughter: Deborah (Lanny) Weaver of Valdosta, GA; stepchildren: Debra (Don) Hole of Louisville, KY, Dennis (Cindy) Penrod of Piqua, Deanna (Mike) Harwood of Piqua and Duane (Tammy) Penrod of Piqua; and fourteen grandchildren and thirty three great-grandchildren.  In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his daughter: Cynthia Bulpin; brothers: Jerry W., Riley W. and G.R. Hardesty and sister: Elizabeth "Louise" Hirt.

Richard was a 1947 graduate of Piqua Central High School.  He proudly served his country as a US Army veteran of the Korean War.  He was Past Worshipful Master of the Masonic Lodge #24 F&AM of Piqua.  He retired from Delta Airlines, AAA Travel Agency and was formerly employed with Baird Funeral Home in Troy.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 27, 2016 at the Baird Funeral Home in Troy with the Rev. Mike Calhoun officiating.  Memorial Honor Guard and Masonic Services will be presented at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriner's Hospital, 3229 Burnett Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3095 or Dayton VA Medical Center, 4100 West Third Street, Dayton, OH 45428.  Friends may express condolences to the family through www.bairdfuneralhome.com.