Albert Paul Richards, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep Sunday, Feb. 5, 2017, in Mesa, Arizona. 

He was born Aug. 31, 1922, in De Graff, Ohio, to Abe and Florence Richards.

Albert served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II as a navigator on a B-17 Bomber stationed in Italy. He was proud to have served his country and in 2010 had the privilege to visit the memorial sites in and near Washington D.C. by the Honor Flight organization.

Albert was married to his wife, Naomi Sloan, for 68 years. He worked for Benson Optical for a total of 39 years, beginning in Albert Lea before transferring to Salt Lake City in 1978. He then retired to Arizona in 1987. He enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and golf.

Albert was preceded in death by his beloved son, Allan Richards; parents Abe and Florence; sister, Doris Redman; and brother, Laurel (Dick) Richards. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Naomi; three daughters, Pat (Jerry) Kenison, Mary (Bill) Motz and Barb Hargis; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters Naomi (Eldon) Farner and Linda (Vernie) Stieglbauer; brothers Larry (Mary) Richards and Dennis (Dorene) Richards; and several nieces and nephews.

Inurnment will be scheduled at a later date at Geneva Cemetery.