It is with indescribable sadness that the family of Phillip Michael "Mike" Richter announces he departed from the physical world on January 1, 2019. He was born on January 14, 1957 in Richmond to Frederick J. and Valerie (Jolly) Richter. He was the son of a World War II veteran and his Australian war bride, the fifth of seven children and the long-awaited firstborn son. He grew up a free spirit, afforded the autonomy to live and learn in a manner unique to the bygone era of his youth. A "favorite" student of the parish nuns, he attended St. Andrew Catholic School, Test Middle School, and graduated from Richmond High School in 1975.



He was a skilled carpenter and craftsman, a machinist at John's Manville, and a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service. Mike served as President of the National Association of Letter Carriers, Local 271. Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow could ever stop him from being a fierce and loyal advocate for his union brothers and sisters. He had an intense passion for sports and a more intense passion for teaching and coaching local youth, including time spent as the athletic director for Seton Catholic's elementary school programs. While Mike had many talents and passions, he most excelled as father to his two children, to whom he selflessly devoted his entire being. He was a loving and loyal husband, uncle, son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend.



Left to honor his memory are his devoted wife of 32 years, Angela (Porfidio) Richter; his children Matthew and Katelyn Richter; siblings Sandra Montgomery, Linda (Alan) Cohen, Mary Catherine Johnson, John (Theresa) Richter, and Beth (Kurt) Churchia; Father-in-law Charles "Larry" Porfidio; Sister-in-law Anita (Gustavo) Gonzalez; and dozens of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his sister Marilyn Sue Dann, nephew Jacob Churchia, best friend Mike Powell, Mother-in-law Josephine Porfidio, and an abundance of beloved aunts and uncles, especially Norman Steinwart and Joseph Richter whom he counted as role models and dear friends.



Friends and family may call from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, January 7, 2019 at Riggle-Waltermann Mortuary. Liturgy of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at Saint Andrew Catholic Church. Mike's dear friend, Father Todd Riebe, will preside. Burial will immediately follow in Saint Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County, 1717 South L Street, Richmond, IN 47374. https://www.bgcrichmond.org/donate