Anthony Wayne "Tony" Richards of Poplar, WI, passed away on August 21, 2022.

He was born on April 10 ^th , 1940, in Big Springs, WV to Lee and Caroline (Hardman) Richards.

Tony graduated from Calhoun County high school in 1958 and Salem College in Salem, WV in 1962 with a degree in chemistry. He worked for Quaker Oats as a research chemist where he received several patents.

Tony moved to Poplar in 1975 and took over as plant manager of PV foods Old El Paso taco plant. He retired in 2008 when the plant closed.

Tony was married to the love of his life Barbra Jo 'Bobbie" Ritter on July 20, 1961, they were married for 49 years. He loved gardening, raising orchids, and hunting deer.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara "Bobbie"; his brother, Timothy Richards and his daughter in-law, Sally Richards.

He is survived by his children, Dr. Joseph Richards, and Debra (Steve) Thill; his grandchildren, Matthew Richards, Daniel (Jessica) Bjork, David Bjork, and Aleshia Bjork; his great grandchildren, Dean, Violet, Chloe, Riley, Grace, Connor, Jasmine, and Atticus; special friend Cynthia Samels.

Visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 29 ^th from 5-7 pm in Downs Funeral Home.  Visitation will continue Tuesday, Aug. 30 ^th from 10:00 until the 11:00 am Funeral Service at Mission Covenant Church, 5161 S County Road P, Popular, WI., with Rev. Darrell Nelson as officiant.

Pallbearers will be John Lundeen, Dan Swenson, Logan Swenson, Landen Swenson, Daniel Bjork, and David Bjork.