Richard L. Gatton, 75, of Burden, Kansas, passed away Monday afternoon, February 12, 2018 at the Kansas Veterans Home in Winfield.

Born May 27, 1942 in Winfield, Kansas, he was the son of David Roy and June Marjorie (Moore) Gatton. He was raised and received his education in Burden, graduating from Burden High School in 1960. He then attended Cowley County Community College graduating with an Associate Degree in 1962. After school he moved with family in California for a short time and attended a school of photography. Later Richard was drafted into the United States Army and served his country in the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge from the service he returned to Burden and began helping his father on the family farm.

He was united in marriage to Sylvia Kearns on May 11, 1968 at the First Christian Church in Winfield, Kansas. The couple made their home in Burden where Richard continued farming. In 1986 he began working at the Winfield Correctional Facility and remained there for 19 years, retiring in 2005. He continued farming his entire life, putting up hay last summer.

He was a member of Burden United Methodist Church, the American Legion and served on the board of the Burden Fire Department for over 30 years. He enjoyed photography, often taking wedding photos for family and friends. He also enjoyed farming and spending time with his kids and grandkids, attending their ball games and other sporting events.

His family includes:
His wife: Sylvia of Burden;
His children: Tammy Pippitt of Burden; Monty Gatton and wife, Shelly of Dexter; Brandon Gatton and wife, Megan of Burden;
His brother: Ronnie Gatton and wife, Bonnie of Winfield;
His grandchildren: Riley Gatton, Allie Pippitt, Cody Pippitt, Shay Pippitt, Jace Pippitt, Jaxon Gatton; and
Several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his step-mother, Eva Marie Gatton, an infant brother, Harold Dean Gatton and a granddaughter, Elly Ann Pippitt.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 16, 2018 at 10:30 A.M. at Burden United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at Burden Cemetery. Miles Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been established in Richard's name for Burden United Methodist Church and the Burden Volunteer Fire Department. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.