Richard Lee Wupperman

Richard “Dick” Lee Wupperman passed away on June 12, 2026, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply. Dick is survived by his wife, Bi Wupperman; his children, Rick, Peggilee, and Patrick Wupperman; and his grandchildren, William, Grant, Ella, Gavin, Lola, and Sally. He was preceded in death by his parents, Telia Mary Wupperman and Richard Otto Wupperman, and by beloved companions, Frisky, Chewy and Mooch. Music was one of the great loves of Dick’s life. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in music from the University of North Texas and completed postgraduate studies at the University of Colorado, where he met the woman who would become his wife and lifelong best friend. After college, Dick was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served as a member of the Army band. Dick had an extraordinary gift for music. He could play every instrument in a marching band, though the clarinet and bassoon were his specialties. He also possessed the rare ability to sight-read music with remarkable ease. For more than 40 years, he shared his love of music as a band director, helping generations of young people discover not only how to play music, but how to appreciate its beauty and power. His faith was also an important part of his life. Most recently, Dick was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Lancaster, where he sang in the choir. Over the years, he also served various churches as a choir director and organist, sharing his talents wherever they were needed. Dick found joy in simple things. He loved taking walks with his wife, often accompanied by multiple enthusiastic dogs. He enjoyed reading, listening to classical music, working in the yard, playing board games (especially Sorry!), and watching classic television shows. Although Dick was not a man of many words and rarely engaged in small talk, those who knew him well understood the depth of his caring. He believed in doing the right thing, treating others fairly, and living according to his principles. He also possessed a dry sense of humor that could catch people by surprise and leave them chuckling. Dick's life was one of devotion: to his family, his faith, his students, and his music. He leaves behind a legacy measured not in accolades, but in the many lives he touched through his teaching, his example, and his steadfast love. He will be remembered with gratitude, missed with affection, and loved always.

Tributes

Richard Lee Wupperman

August 26, 1933 - June 12, 2026