Richard M. Westphal, 83, of Grand Island, NE died October 22, 2026, at the V.A. Nebraska – Western Iowa Health Care System in Grand Island, NE. Graveside service will be Monday, October 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Grand Island City Cemetery. Nick Schonlau will officiate. Memorials are suggested to the family for designation at a later date. You are welcome to sign Richard’s guestbook at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under his obituary. Curran Funeral Chapel is assisting the family.

Richard was born July 27, 1943, in Grand Island, NE the son of Melvin and Maxine (Wabael) Westphal. He grew up in Grand Island before moving with his family to Anaheim, CA. He received his education at Anaheim Union High School graduating in 1961. He entered the U.S. Navy on February 1, 1962, serving until his honorable discharge on January 10, 1964. He returned to Anaheim, CA. He was united in marriage to Darlyne Proffit on March 6, 1965, in Anaheim, CA. They lived in Anaheim where Richard was employed as a manager for Roger Sweet Hobbie Store and later Gem Top. The family moved to Grand Island in 1985 to help care for Richard’s parents. Richard worked as a contract laborer at JBS Swift in the Bovine Product division.

Richard enjoyed fishing, camping, and was an avid fan of racing cars.

Survivors of the immediate family include his wife of 61 years, Darlyne Westphal of Grand Island, NE

Children: Rikki Westphal of Grand Island, NE

Raymond Westphal of Farnham, NE

Grandchildren, Tristan Westphal, Hannah Westphal, Desiree Westphal, Ella Westphal, and two great grandchildren.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Jean Pressler and Joan Hann.