Obituary of Richard Newell Warner

Richard N. Warner, 7 November 1933 - 18 March 2012. Dedicated to his family, friends, community, and the United States of America, serving in uniform during the Korean War and for 30 years with the United States Government around the world in South East Asia, the Middle East and the Levant, the Former Soviet Union, Europe, and Africa. Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, two sisters, and his wife of 43 year, Maureen (Stuart) Warner. Dad leaves behind a family of four sons with their lovely wives, 9 grandchildren, and 3 great grand children; as well as nieces, nephews, and a fantastic network of associates, neighbors, and close friends, all who care deeply for him. During his early retirement years, Richard was well known throughout numerous sports programs in the State of Florida serving as a referee and umpire on multiple courts of play and fields of dreams. For those knowing him best: he would probably say he never pitched a perfect game, but I say he threw a lot of no-hitters and shut outs; he would probably say he never hit a grand slam, but I say he always hit it out of the park; he would probably say he had lousy statistics, but I say he never left a runner on base and always brought us home; he would probably say he threw a lot of balls, but I say he never threw a wild pitch. He got hit by a few bad pitches, but always managed to get back up. And finally, I say everyone eventually strikes out - Richard struck out swinging! Later in life, his community knew him as the man who walked for fitness and saluted every American Flag flying in the neighborhood. He gave daily counts on how many flags were flying. On 18 March, his flag was flown proudly and lowered sadly for the final time. Instead of flowers the family recommends donations to any of the numerous programs Richard supported with his efforts or your own favorite donation - there are many worthwhile causes. And fly your American Flag, at full staff, for him and your Country. The family is grateful for your kind thoughts and remembrances. No public service is planned at this time. The family will notify friends and associates when it is determined how best to honor our father, Richard Newell Warner.