Richard Elmer McMaster, 76, of Sligo passed away the morning of Friday, April 26, 2024, at his home following a period of declining health.
Born in the family farmhouse in New Bethlehem on May 5, 1947, he was the son of the late Elmer and Thelma Delp McMaster.
He was a graduate of both Redbank High School and Clarion University.
He proudly and honorably served his country with the U.S. Navy from February 1967 to November 1968, training as an intelligence specialist at Lowry Air Force Base before serving on the USS America.
After his discharge, he continued to work with veterans as a Veterans Employment Representative for the Department of Labor and Industry.
He served as President of the Clarion County Vietnam Veterans Group that was credited with the inception and completion of the Vietnam Memorial in Clarion Veteran Memorial Park.
On May 27, 1972, in Somerset, PA. he married the former Linda J. Bowlby. She survives.
His memberships included the Clarion United Methodist Church, Clarion Kiwanis Club, and the Clarion American Legion.
Richard was known for his sharp wit.
He enjoyed traveling, skiing, scuba diving, rock concerts, drag races, coaching soccer, and being with his family.
In addition to his wife of 51 years, Linda, he is survived by his son, Eric (Kim Moore) McMaster; his daughter, Carrie (Zen) Mayo; his grandchildren, Rivers and Edith McMaster and Bodhi Mayo; and his dog, Baron.
Those preceding him in death in addition to his parents were his infant son, Jesse McMaster; his brother, Ronald McMaster; and his sister, Marlena Pickford.
Furlong Funeral Home, 50 Broad St., Summerville has been entrusted with the final arrangements for Mr. McMaster.
A celebration of life is planned for a later date and will be announced.
Interment will be in Leatherwood Cemetery, Clarion County.
Friends and family may leave online condolences, light a memorial candle, share a memory, and obtain additional information by visiting www.furlongfuneralhome.com.
