Richard Carl Lehman, age 77, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Good Samaritan Society – Sioux Falls Village in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A committal service will be held 2:00pm Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at the South Dakota State Veteran Cemetery in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Richard was born on March 7, 1948 to Eugene W. and Irene M. (Krause) Lehman in Mitchell, South Dakota. He attended Riggs High School in Pierre, South Dakota, graduating in 1966. Shortly after graduation in June of the same year, Richard enlisted in the US Navy, and served his country for 12 years where he exemplified courage and bravery, along with his tenacious desire to always do the right thing.

Richard was joined in marriage to Carol Sue Leach on July 4, 1975 in Casper, Wyoming. The couple had three children, Bud, Brian, and Christina. Richard was a protective and loving husband and father, and later, grandfather. Family was important to him and he would do anything for those he cared about. His genuine generosity was also extended to anyone in need. Richard went out of his way to help other people. He would give the shirt off of his back to someone else if they needed.

After his time in the Navy, Richard completed his Master Degree in Education. He then became a long-time educator, principle, and coach at various schools. He was an avid sports fan and particularly loved coaching basketball.

Woven throughout Richard's life were amazing stories too numerous to mention, but he was gifted at sharing his tales with others. He had many experiences and adventures both in the Navy and as a civilian that he shared with his family. Richard also loved music and would always have a booming sound system to listen to all his favorite records, tapes, and CDs.

Grateful to have shared Richard's life with him are his wife, Carol Lehman of Sioux Falls, SD; his sons,  Bud Lehman of Flandreau, SD and Brian Lehman of Mandan, ND, his daughter Christina Ellis of Sioux Falls, SD; his grandchildren, Victoria  Knofczynski, Dartanion Lehman, Rachel Resz, Isabella Lehman, Lichieh Lehman, Lily Lehman, and Luna Lehman;  his sister, Deanna Simpson; his nephew, Scott Simpson; his nieces, Carol Lehman Slupe, Lori Lehman Cheever, and Julie Duchscherer;  and numerous cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Irene Lehman; his brothers, Donald and Douglas Lehman; his sister, Shirley Lehman; and his grandson, Kyle Lehman.

Cards or memorials to the family can be sent to Miller Funeral Home, 507 S. Main Ave., Sioux Falls, SD 57104 to be forwarded on.