Rodney H. Richards

On April 22,2022, at the age of 70, Rodney (Rod; Buzzard; Buzz) Richards ran his last quarter mile and crossed the finish line.



He was born in Lewistown, MT on October 23,1951 to Myrtle Knerr Richards and Jesse Richards. The family lived at Hanover, MT where Jesse worked for Ideal Cement Co. Rod attended schools in Lewistown and graduated from Fergus High in 1969. After graduation, he attended Helena Vo-tech and received a 2-year certificate in automotive technology. During his work career he was employed by Ford Motors; Lewistown OK Hardware, and Courtesy Chevrolet.



In December of 1998, Santa pronounced Rod and Rhonda (Springer) husband and wife at their unique Christmas wedding. Rod was a caring and supportive husband to Rhonda after her tragic accident and through her battle with cancer. Rhonda passed away in 2011.



All who knew Rod knew he loved cars. He participated in demolition derbies, owned a silver 1957 Chevy street rod, attended and helped organize Hot Rod Rallies and every summer he could be seen at the local drag strip racing, spectating, or helping others at the track. Rod was active at the Lewistown Raceway Drag Strip from its inception. Taking trips to Bakersfield, CA for the NHRA races were something Rod looked forward to. Rod was a proud cancer survivor. He participated in Relay for Life and his Chevy Nova race car was painted pink in dedication to those who succumbed to cancer and cancer survivors. During NASCAR season, Rod faithfully watched the races on TV and was always discussing the races with his brothers. Thursdays were “car day” where he would join with good friends and his brother Glenn to work on race cars and classic cars at 'the

Wicks' shop.



He enjoyed cooking and making large quantities of goodies to share with family and friends. Rod never said no to a request for his famous beans! He was also known in the family for the various flavors of fudge and brittle he made during the holidays. Rod enjoyed hunting and for many years took annual hunting trips up into the Belt Mountains with friends. He also enjoyed listening to music and had an enviable collection of decades of rock and roll music. He was the proud cat-parent of several cats throughout the years including Nitro, Bailey, and Zoom.



Rod is survived by brother Glenn (Arlee) Richards; sisters Neva Crane and Jeanette Kotecki; step-son Jeremy Springer; step grandchildren; nieces; nephews; several cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, brother Mike, and his parents.



A memorial reception for Rod will be held Saturday, May 14, 2022, 1PM, at the Lewistown Moose Club. Condolences may be shared online at www.cloydfuneralhome.com.