Arland W. Richards, 99, died May 27, 2023, at Legend of Hutchinson. He was born October 12, 1923, in Salina, to Earl L. and Blenda M. (Ingemanson) Richards.
Arland graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1941, served in the United States Army from 1943-1946, and received his bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University in 1950. He was the former owner of Hutchinson Industrial Supply. Arland was known for his spunky and outgoing personality. He enjoyed coffee at McDonald’s with his coffee group, and cheering on the Kansas State Wildcats. One of the many highlights during his life was being invited to breakfast on Veteran’s Day at the White House by First Lady, Laura Bush. Arland had served in the same battalion as Laura’s father.
On June 12, 1958, he married Cora Margaret “Marge (Crotts) McClelland, in Hutchinson. She died December 4, 2000, after sharing over 42 years of marriage together.
Arland is survived by: sons, Richard Crotts of Papua New Guinea, and Ken McClelland (Soni) of Hutchinson; close family friends, Susan and Randy Puls of Hutchinson; four grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 16 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in in death by: his parents; daughter, Janice Sargent; and a sister, Melva Richards.
Graveside service will be 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Pleasant View Cemetery, Darlow, with Pastor Matt Stafford officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.
In lie of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Arland W. Richards Memorial Fund (to benefit his son, Richard’s missionary work), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.