Mr. Richard Harts, 92, of 1316 Jackson Blvd. Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 8:00 AM, Tuesday, February 14th, 2012 at his home. On this day he moved to his eternal Heavenly home, ironically the same day ---120 years ago his Dad was born, February 14, 1892. Born in Miami County on September 20, 1919, Richard was the son of Roy and Opal Strebin Harts. As one of four children he shared his childhood growing up on the farm with a sister Mildred and two brothers, Donald and John. During this time he developed a strong work ethic, a passion for animals and love and appreciation for agriculture, his lifelong occupation. In May of 1937, Richard graduated from Clay Township High School where he played basketball during his high school years. During his youth, Richard enjoyed cruising around on his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. His courtship with a beautiful girl named Marilyn and enjoying many cycle rides with her led them to be lifelong partners of over 71 1/2 years. On September 15, 1940 Richard married the love of his life and best friend, Marilyn Jenkins in the McGrawsville Methodist Church. Their union produced two children, Ellen and Larry. Over the years the family tree flourished with the addition of seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Without doubt, the only thing that eclipsed the planting season was the bountiful harvest, as Richard enjoyed turning the fresh soil while planting corn, beans and wheat on their 100 acre farm. The family milked a fine herd of Holsteins, raised cross bred pigs, and had an assortment of ducks, sheep, billy goats and Arabian horses. Ellen's pony Champ was a coveted pet. Richard also treasured the company of his Rat Terriers, Tuffy and Tippy. During his 70 years of farming, Richard experienced an evolution of change. The purchase of his John Deere B was memorable as it had the amenities of lights and a starter, a luxury in the day. In 1962 the Harts moved to Rochester from the farm in Miami County, although Richard continued to drive back and forth to tend to the farming operation. In 1990 Richard retired from farming, turning the farm over to his son Larry. For nearly two decades Richard served the children of Clay Township Schools as a bus driver, retiring in the early 1960's. A life member of the Moose and Elk's Lodges, Richard was a proud 50 year member of the Fraternal Order of the Police. He was a devoted member of the Manicore Lodge of Peru. An avid outdoorsman, Richard loved to hunt deer and mushroom hunt near the railroad tracks, on his farm, or other undisclosed locations. He and Marilyn enjoyed the warmth of the sunshine in Florida, as they wintered for 40 years in Bradenton's Castle Park. As an adventurer, Richard and Marilyn cruised on his shiny black Harley on day trips around northern Indiana. To Las Vegas they went to enjoy the slots, and his favorite team was the Chicago White Sox. Paramount in Richard's life was his family. As the proud patriarch of 4 generations, he adored Marilyn, cherished Ellen and Larry and loved the visits of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, doting on them. Richard will be lovingly remembered by his wife Marilyn, at home; 1 daughter, Ellen Scott and husband Doug of Rochester; 1 son, Larry Harts of Bunker Hill; 7 grandchildren: Stacy & J.D. Heckathorn, Melissa Music of Rochester, Kiley White of Indianapolis, Roger & Sandy Harts of Cicero, Robyn Macy of Converse, Steven Scott and Stephanie Rensberger of Rochester; 11 great grandchildren; 1 sister, Mildred Younce of Rochester; and 1 brother, Donald Harts of Amboy. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother John Harts, and a grandson Evan Harts. Dennis Harts will officiate services. Interment will be in the Sante Fe Cemetery.