J. Richard Wian

WIAN, J. Richard (“Dick”, “J.R.”, “John”) – of Goodrich, MI, age 91, died Saturday, September 19, 2026. Dick was born in Bellefonte, PA on September 28, 1934, son of the late Cameron and Catharine (Rockey) Wian. He was a proud 1958 graduate of Penn State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Dairy and Animal Science. His connection to Penn State remained a meaningful part of his life, and he was a Life Member of the Penn State Alumni Association as well as a Life Member of the College of Agricultural Sciences. Dick established the J. Richard Wian Scholarship in Veterinary Science, providing opportunities for future generations to pursue their education and careers. He took great pride in the scholarship recipients and participated in the program’s early-start phase for fifteen years, receiving notes from all recipients and following their journeys with genuine interest and encouragement. After a successful career in the dairy industry, Dick began a second career dedicated to serving and protecting others. He served with the Grand Blanc Township Police Department in Grand Blanc, MI for twenty years, retiring in 2000 with the rank of Sergeant. Earlier in his life, Dick proudly served six years in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard in the Air Police section and was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant. Throughout his life, Dick demonstrated a strong commitment to service, education, and the people around him. His legacy will live on not only through those who knew and loved him, but also through the many lives touched by his generosity, dedication, and years of service.Dick is survived by two sisters, Jane Schoenefeldt of Pittsburgh and Gladys (Roger) Arnold of Pittsburgh. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cameron and Catharine Wian; wife, Doris Anne (Hill) Wian; sister, Dorothy (William) Haskins and brother-in-law, Fred Schoenefeldt. The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at The Pines of Goodrich for the wonderful care they provided Dick over the last several years. They would also like to express their sincere gratitude to his longtime attorney, Lori A. Tallman, for her professionalism, compassion, and guidance throughout the years.

Visitation will be at Laughlin Cremation & Funeral Tributes 222 Washington Road Mt. Lebanon on Wednesday from 12:30 PM until 1:30 PM. The funeral service will be immediately following visitation, in the mausoleum chapel at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the J. Richard Wian Scholarship in Veterinary Sciences at Penn State University. 

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