Richard A. Tackett, 64, of North Platte, was promoted to glory November 15, 2015 at Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. He was born September 8th, 1951 to Walter and Imogene Tackett in Goody, Kentucky.
Richard grew up in Willamson, West Virginia where he attended high school and became an amazing athlete. Being short in stature, Richard was nicknamed "Mighty Midget". He also was a member of the Salvation Army, volunteering often.
Upon graduation in 1970, Richard entered the Air Force, and was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, SD. During this time, he met his soon-to-be bride, Wilma Gilbert. They were married on March 22, 1974 in Wilma's home town of North Platte, Nebraska, and settled down in South Dakota. After his time with the Air Force ended, the couple relocated to North Platte, and were blessed with two beautiful children, Joanna and Nathan.
In 1976, Richard became employed with Union Pacific Railroad where he worked in the Sheet Metal Workers Local 334 until his retirement in 2012.
In his free time, Richard loved building model airplanes. He also enjoyed volunteering with the Salvation Army, watching West Virginia and Nebraska football, but most importantly, spending time with his family. Though he was a quiet man, he loved to play harmless jokes on family and friends, and was always there to lend a hand. He had a strong presence and was adored by all who met him.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Wilma; son, Nathan (Jennifer) Tackett of Sutherland, NE; granddaughter, Cydney Spady of Imperial, NE; mother Imogene Tackett of Williamson, WV; brothers Charles Terry (Diana) of Lexington, KY; Joseph (Thelma) of Williamson, WV; Stephen (Jeanette) of Montgomery, AL; Jeffrey (Alice) of Turkey Creek, KY; numerous nieces and nephews, in-laws, extended family, and countless friends.
He was preceded in death by his father; Walter; infant brother, Frank; infant daughter, Joanna; in-laws Bill and Geraldine Gilbert.
Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, November 20, 2015 at the Salvation Army Church. Burial will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell with military honors graveside. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. Thursday, November 19, 2015, at Adams & Swanson funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.