Richard W. Stout

Richard W. Stout, 90, of Elkhart, passed away Sunday Jan. 14, 2018 at Elkhart General Hospital.

He was born Oct. 1, 1927 in Milwaukee, WI to Richard B. and Flora (Pflugradt) Stout.

Dick married Evelyn “Bami” Smith of Alabama and there were three children born of their union: Robert of Asheville, NC; Mary Ann (Waits) of Earlville, Ill; and William of South Bend, IN. Bami died in 1997. In 2002, Dick married B. Kay “Kayte” Bontrager and blended his family with hers. She has three children: Keith, Carie (Jackson) and Bryan. Together they celebrated fourteen grand-children and twelve great grand-children and many happy family times. He is also survived by his sister Mary Ann (Carroll).

As a child Dick loved living and boating on the St. Joseph river. He called himself and his river friends “river rats”, eventually raising his family riverside. If he could do anything for pleasure, it often involved being on the river, or beside it, watching how it changed with the seasons and the weather.

Dick had a BS from TriState University and worked in several metal fabricating companies until 1959, when he formed Stoutco Inc in Bristol, IN. He often said it was not “his” company but that of the shareholders and employees. He took great pleasure in helping customers solve problems with creative product adaptations and service. He developed a leadership style which focused on the development of others around him. It gave him great joy to see how others grew into their talents to become leaders and team players. His success in business was built on integrity, perseverance, quality, innovative design, and customer service. He strove always to keep his word.

He was known for his sense of humor and enjoyed trading rapid fire puns back and forth on any subject. He would play harmless, practical jokes on his friends and colleagues, not only to enjoy their reactions, but to express affection as well.

Dick Stout was the family’s brother, husband, father, grand- and great grandfather, friend, colleague and mentor. He quietly supported many community individuals and organizations, enriching lives, and making Elkhart County a better place to live, work and play. He will be greatly missed.

Friends may visit with the family from 6-8 Friday Jan. 19 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, and for two hours prior to the 1 PM Saturday Jan. 20 service. Pastor Harold Knight will officiate.

Memorials may be made in lieu of flowers to the Elkhart Salvation Army.

Online condolences may be sent to www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com.