Richard James Platz, 83, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, passed away on January 28, 2026.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Laura Platz; his first wife, Isabella Platz; and his sisters, Shirley and Gaylene.

Born and raised in North Dakota, Richard joined the United States Army on January 20, 1961. He proudly served his country for 20 years as a combat engineer and drill instructor, including two tours in Vietnam. His military service was a defining part of his life, and he carried the values of duty, honor, and commitment long after his time in uniform.

After retiring from the military, Richard moved to Amarillo, Texas, where he worked for the Jack B. Kelly family of companies for 33 years, eventually rising to Vice President of Specialty Trailer Leasing.

Aside from time spent with family, Richard’s greatest passion was hunting. He was known as an exceptional marksman and was famous for outshooting everyone else on bird-hunting trips.

Following retirement, Richard and his wife Sharon moved to Heber Springs, Arkansas, where he spent many happy hours on the lake with his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Sharon; daughters Sandra (Scott) and Jessica (Heath); sons Richard and Jason (Ary); sisters Sandra (Bob) and Cathy; and his seven beloved grandchildren—Bella (Ben), Justin, Henry, Katelyn, Keren, Sam, and Rachel—who affectionately knew him as “Pop’Pop.”

Richard will be laid to rest on February 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with full military honors, at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Richard to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.