Richard Henry Wenthe, 64, of Claremore, OK, passed away November 1, 2026. He was born in Salina, KS, to Oscar and Marilyn (Wiley) Wenthe.

Richard spent more than four decades in the asphalt and pavement preservation industry. A respected expert in slurry seal and micro surfacing, he traveled worldwide to share knowledge, train others, and advance industry practices. Throughout his career, he contributed to innovations in equipment design, including the development of the first hydraulic expandable spreader box. He worked at Ballou Construction, SEM Materials, Road Science, and, for his final 15 years, Ingevity.

More than his accomplishments, Richard will be remembered for the relationships he built. He was an incredible friend, devoted husband and father, and the very best Papa. His kindness, laughter, and love leave a lasting mark.

He is survived by his wife, Tammy (Ulsaker) Wenthe; children, Haley (Wenthe) Thomann and husband Kevin, Hallee (Chronister) Gorrell and husband Chris, and Dustin Chronister and wife Katy; grandchildren, Dylan, Theo, and Porter Thomann, Brayden Gorrell, and Freya, Chloe, and Logan Chronister; mother, Marilyn Wenthe; and siblings, Diane Haden (Rob) and Jeff Wenthe (Sharon).

He was preceded in death by first wife, Mary (Hall) Wenthe; his father, Oscar; siblings, Greg and Debbie Wenthe; and granddaughter, Kennadie Gorrell.

The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 302 S. 7th St., Salina, KS. A memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Gypsum Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions made to the Richard Wenthe Memorial Scholarship, which is being established in Richard’s honor within the pavement preservation industry. Contributions may be sent in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th St., Salina, KS 67401. Further details about the scholarship will be shared once finalized.