Richard Ellis Shelhamer the son of Ellis Shelhamer and Blanche (Stauth) Shelhamer was born Jan. 1, 1952 in Kalispell, Montana and departed this life Oct. 5, 2006 at the age of 54 years 9 months and 4 days.

Richard was a resident of the Ava area and was a beef farmer. On Oct. 28, 1978 Richard and Linda Marie Becker were united in marriage in Denver, Colorado. Richard and Linda were blessed with three sons. Linda preceded Richard in death in l998. He was also preceded in death by his parents.

Richard enjoyed spending time with his children, pontoon boating, traveling and fixing and maintaining his farm.

He is survived by his four children, Nicholas Shelhamer, Columbia, MO, Timothy Shelhamer, Joplin, MO, Toby Shelhamer and Julia Shelhamer both of Ava, MO, one sister, Sandy Gress, Pueblo, Colorado, one brother, Michael Shelhamer, Yuma, Arizona and a host of friends.

Memorial services will be 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2006 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home Chapel, Ava, MO with the Rev. Robert Roberts officiating. Love offerings may be made to the family at the funeral home.