Richard Wiedey Obituary

Richard Henry
Wiedey
January 17, 1940
March 31, 2023

Richard Henry Wiedey, DDS, died peacefully at home, with his loving wife by his side. His two sons, daughters-in-law, and grandsons spent time with him in his final days and hours.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Charles Richard Wiedey and Margaret Edna (Pergrem) Wiedey, he was raised in Edwardsville, Illinois. He was a devoted husband of 60 years to Janice Kay (Smoltz), brother to Jane (Wiedey) Sullivan, father to Christopher and Curt, father-in-law to Mary Jo and Diné, grandfather to Cole and Cade, and uncle to Robin and Greta.

He graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1957. Thereafter, he matriculated at Illinois Wesleyan University, where he graduated in 1961 with a B.A. degree in biology. He pursued professional studies at Northwestern University Dental School, where he graduated in 1965 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. After receiving his dental license, he remained at Northwestern for some time teaching in the Department of Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, before entering the U.S. Air Force.

While in the Air Force, he attained the rank of Captain and served as the Commander of the Hospital Dental Clinic at Amarillo Air Force Base in Texas.

After honorably serving his country in the Air Force, he established a private dental practice in Colorado Springs, where he spent the rest of his life, retiring in 2015. He was known as a gentle, humorous, and thorough dentist to generations of patients in the Pikes Peak region. Many of his patients became lifelong friends.

He always stressed the importance of education, reading, and an appreciation for the arts. He learned to play piano and organ in his youth, which he continued to enjoy throughout his life. He found strength in his faith and was a longtime member and supporter of Church of St. Michael the Archangel.

Together with his wife, Janice, he traveled to Greece, England and Italy on memorable vacations that made a lasting impression on his life. He loved the mountains of Colorado and the glorious view of Pikes Peak that he enjoyed every day from his home.

He loved animals and owned many wonderful dogs, whose companionship he enjoyed each day.

Above all, he was devoted to the members of his family, who will miss him dearly. We love you Rich, Dad, Grandpa, Uncle Rich, and we will always remember you.

The family thanks Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care for their compassion and professionalism. Memorial contributions in Richard Wiedey's name may be made to Church of St. Michael the Archangel, or a charity of choice.

Services and a celebration of life will take place on May 20, 2023, 1:00 pm, at Church of St. Michael the Archangel, 7400 Tudor Road, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919.