Richard Wade Wahl

Richard Wade Wahl, 83, of Ottawa Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026. Richard was born on October 7, 1942, in Toledo, Ohio, to Melvin and Elizabeth (Smalley) Wahl. He graduated from Whiteford High School, Class of 1962.

Richard lived a full life of purpose, hard work, and deep passion for the thing and the people he loved most. He found true joy in the horse world and had a deep love for all livestock. Richard’s passion began at a young age, growing up on his family’s farm. As he grew older, he became a champion calf roper and a successful horse trainer. His love of horses throughout his life, was one of his most defining traits and he proudly passed that passion on to his children.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Veronica Ann (Kenny) Schappacher; sons, Nicholas Lee (Amy) Wahl and Richard Dustin (Natalie) Wahl; grandchildren, Jennifer (Demitre) Girod, Layne, Olivia, Shyann, and Jolie Wahl; and great-grandchildren, Akello, Axanna, and Avery Girod. Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his firstborn son, John Joseph Wahl.

A celebration of Richard’s life is being planned and will be announced at a later date once the details are finalized.

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