Richard Eugene Wilharm

PHOENIX – Richard Eugene Wilharm, 71 went to be with his Lord on September 12th, 2018 after a two year battle with multiple myeloma. He was born in Chicago on May 24th, 1947 to Eugene and Jane (West) Wilharm. His family moved to Dallas where Richard completed high school. Richard worked with his father as an electrician’s apprentice starting at age 12 and became a master electrician at age 19. He started his musical career at age 9 when he learned to play the saxophone, clarinet, bassoon, oboe, and French horn. He joined the Navy SeaBees, MCB 10-31st NCR after his last year of college. He finished his Navy career playing his saxophone in the 31st NCR (SeaBees) band. After completing his enlistment in the Navy, he returned to Texas where he worked for Braniff Airlines for several years. He then moved to Arizona where he worked for DMB Associates as a building chief engineer and property manager. He joined Climatec in 1996, where he worked until his retirement. He always said he would continue to work until it was “no longer fun”, as he enjoyed the talent and leadership of this wonderful company. He took with him his vast knowledge of programming and customer-based service.

Richard loved music and sang in the choir and played hand bells at The Church of Litchfield Park. He sang in the George Chelena Chorale and was also a member of the Orpheus Men’s Chorus of Phoenix.

Richard met the love of his life and soul mate, Carolann in 1997. They were married on January 1, 1998, and enjoyed 20 years, 8 months, 11 days and 14 ½ wonderful hours together. They built a house together, making it a home and enjoyed yearly vacations at their time share in Cancun.

Richard is survived by his wife, Carolann Sachs, his brother John, sister Jessie Miller (Cary), stepsisters Crystal Laman and Serena Caruso, as well as many adoring nieces and nephews. He will be missed by his numerous friends. He was known for his loyalty, integrity, fun-loving and gregarious nature and was a gentleman to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the music department of the Church at Litchfield Park, or the Orpheus Men’s Chorus of Phoenix.

A memorial service will be held at the Church at Litchfield Park, 300 N. Old Litchfield Rd. Litchfield park, Az. 85340 on Saturday Oct. 13th at 10:30 AM.