CONDON - Richard Meckler peacefully passed away in the comfort of his own home in Condon on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012. Son of Nicholas and Matilda Meckler, his parents introduced him to to his beloved state of Montana, which he so dearly loved.

In his lifetime, Dick worked around much of the state doing anything from trapping game, hunting and fishing to just being the free spirit that would define the rest of his life. Richard joined the U.S. Army during the Asiatic-Korean campaign, was captured on Dec. 12, 1950, and was held as a prisoner of war until his release on Aug. 20, 1953, after the signing of the armistice. Richard received numerous awards for his heroism, including but not limited to Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Emblem, Valorous Unit Emblem, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Army of Occupation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Expert Infantry Badge, Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Arrowhead and United Nations Service Medal. After his release, he returned to Montana and perused a career in law enforcement. In addition, Dick attended the FBI Academy. He was the undersheriff of Ravalli County, and as undersheriff he also served as chief of police for Stevensville. He subsequently ran for sheriff and unfortunately lost the race.

Richard will be missed as he leaves behind his daughter, Tami Lampkin; three sons, Richard Jr., Shannon and Trent Meckler; and grandchildren, Brittney Lampkin, Christine Smith, Rachel Leisle, Sherry Fayram, Cameron and Bridger Meckler.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Jan. 8, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, also at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow the service at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery.