Richard L. "Dick" Wampler DVM

Richard L. Wampler (Dick) DVM of Lincoln NE passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at the Country House Residence. He was born February 11, 1931, at Emporia, KS to Rose (Hammond) and Herkle Wampler. The family moved to Courtland KS in 1937. Richard graduated as valedictorian from Courtland High School in 1949. He graduated from Kansas State University with a doctoral degree in Veterinary Medicine in 1955 and entered the Army Veterinary Corps.

Richard married Donna Lee (Childs) in Belleville, KS on November 4, 1956. To this union were born two children: Craig Alan & Susan Diane.

On October 7, 1957, Dr. Wampler joined the staff at the Grand Island Veterinary Hospital where he was active in the practice 42 years. He greatly enjoyed his clients—both human and animal. His interests included trail riding, traveling, singing, Husker & K-State ball games, and raising quarter horse & thoroughbred colts. He also enjoyed volunteering in numerous community organizations & family time.

Donna passed away in March of 1989. In June 1990, Dr. Wampler married Jean England. They moved to Lincoln, NE in 2000 when he retired from the Grand Island practice. He continued to do relief veterinary work in Lincoln for 10 years.

Richard is survived by his wife, Jean, sister Phyllis (Don) Mikesell of Hutchinson KS, daughter-in-law, Kirsten Wampler of Omaha, daughter Susan (Jim) Wakefield of O’Neill, stepchildren Emily (Mike) Osborne & Elizabeth England of Lincoln, Erik (Tracey Poyer) England of Springdale AR, grandchildren, Jackie (Brandon) McDowell, Ben Wampler, Samantha Wampler, Riley Wakefield step-grandchildren Will (Megan) Osborne, Catey (Aaron) Ediger, great-grandchildren Colton, Evie & Keagan McDowell and other beloved family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Craig Wampler and grandson, Brady Wakefield.

A celebration of life will be held at Apfel Funeral Home, 1123 W 2nd St, Grand Island on February 2, 2024, at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Plymouth Church accessible walkway project in Lincoln NE.

Online condolences may be left at www.apfelfuneralhome.com