Frank Richter passed away Sunday Sept. 21, 2014 after a long struggle with Parkinson Disease.
He was born June 10, 1930 to George & Margaret (Schwan) Richter, who were homesteaders near Alma north of Joplin, Mt. Frank was the 10th of 15 children born to this union and was the first child born at a hospital (in Havre, Mt).
Frank was only 7 years old when his father passed away. This large family moved to Inverness so the kids could attend school. Within six months their home burned down. These life events and the tough times in the depression set his character for life.
Frank graduated from Joplin H.S in 1948. In school he was a standout athlete in baseball, basketball, & football.
After graduation, Frank worked briefly for the Farmers Union and the Anaconda smelter in Great Falls.
Frank married Grace Fern Miles on January 21, 1950 in Joplin. The young couple moved to the Miles homestead north of Joplin where he built the Richter farm until retiring in his early 60's.
Frank served on the Joplin School Board, the Sage Creek Water District Board, and the Farm Credit Bureau Board over the years.
After his retirement, Frank still enjoyed family gatherings, pulling grand kids with the boat, pulling the sleds with the pickup or snowmobile, playing with the grandkids on the beach at Tiber Dam, or just sitting around enjoying a beverage with friends. After his diagnosis with Parkinson's in 1999, he continued to be active and enjoy his family time for many many years. Mom and dad continued to be involved in a trailer camping club until the last couple years.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, 1 brother of Havre, 4 children, 12 grandchildren,1 great-grandchild, many nieces & nephews. Frank was pre-deceased by his parents and 13 siblings.

Complete obituary published in Great Falls Tribune on Sept. 24, 2014