Richard Griffin

Richard Joseph Griffin, 74, of Atwood, died Monday, August 3, 2020. Richard was born to Paul E and Viola (Coyne) Griffin on April 15, 1946 in Marysville KS. At the tender age of 4 Rich and his brother Paul Jr. were reluctantly admitted to Winfield State Hospital by their father after their mother passed suddenly. For 26 years he lived in different institutions. He joined our family at PDC in 1977. In 1994 Rich moved into a house with his good friend Donald Gilbert. A few years later Don’s sister Susan and her husband Loren purchased a trailer home for them. Susan continued to love and care for Rich after Don’s passing. Rich loved Susan and appreciated her loving care.

How do we remember Rich? Many years ago, he said I could use the word “ornery”. He was that and our teaser. He loved to have fun. Rich enjoyed coffee, hot cakes, cinnamon rolls, banana cake and coke? He liked watching Westerns and wanted popcorn anytime he watched a movie. (Of course, half the popcorn landed on the floor!) He loved Special Olympics Basketball, bowling, softball, shooting pool, going to camp and of course Christmas. Rich was a very big fan of RCHS football and basketball games. Some of his favorites were going fishing, dogs and holding babies.

Rich attended the Christian Church and was dear friends with Jim Begley. Mr. Begley took such special care of Rich and he loved him dearly. Last month our hearts were touched by Rich’s tenderness for Kelly. He had a bouquet of flowers for her and he kept teasing her with them. Finally, he gave them to her and said “Love you”

From all of your PDC family we were blessed to have you in our lives. We will miss you and love you!!

A memorial service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 14, 2020 at the Prairie Development Center, Atwood. Following the service, at 2:00 p.m. Rich will be inurned next to his good friend, Donnie in the Gem Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the PDC and can be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com