Richard W. Scholtes, 88, of Granger, died Thursday, September 29, 2016 unexpectedly at his residence.

Richard was born on March 22, 1928 in Algona, IA to the late John and Ruth (O'Keeffe) Scholtes.  He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Anne Patricia Scholtes Pucheta, a grandson, Carlos Pucheta and a sister, Maureen Tobin.

On November 27, 1954, Richard married Janet Sollitt in Elkhart.  She survives along with two sons: John L. (Rebecca) Scholtes of Grosse Pointe, MI, David R. (Colleen) Scholtes of Granger, IN; seven grandchildren, one great granddaughter and two sisters; Natalie Quinn of Clearlake, IA and Margaret Borgmeyer of Ames, IA.

Richard graduated from Iowa State University with a BS in Engineering and from Columbia University, where he received his MBA.  Richard served as the Vice President of Sollitt Construction until his retirement.

An active member of the community, Richard was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Elkhart where he was a Deacon, an Elder as well as a Trustee.  He was also a former member of: Elcona Country Club, South Bend and Elkhart Rotary Clubs, and the St. Joseph County Park Board.  He also served on the board of directors for the South Bend YMCA.  Richard also belonged to the Society of Civil Engineers and the Society of Professional Engineers.

The family would like to give a special thanks to his amazing caregivers Nola, Karen, Finau and other senior one employees.

Visitation for Richard will be held on Saturday, October 1st from 1:00 until 2:00 at the First Presbyterian Church located at 200 East Beardsley Avenue, Elkhart, IN 46514.  Services will be held immediately following with the Rev. Sarah Sanderson-Doughty officiating.  Private family burial will follow in Rice Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Elkhart First Presbyterian Foundation and to Reins of Life, 55200 Quince Road, South Bend, IN  46619.