James Joseph Richter of Hondo, passed away Monday, July 14, 2008, He would have attained the age of 83 years had he lived two more days. He was born on July 16, 1925, the son of Louis M. and Ida (Sauter) Richter. He was reared in D'Hanis and attended the Catholic schools there, graduating in May 1942 from St. Anthony High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1943 and served as an Aviation Machinists Mate until his discharge in 1946. James married Clara Nell Bright of Carrizo Springs February 15, 1947. Their only child, a son, Jimmy Joe Richter was born in December of 1949. They lived almost all their 62 years of married life in Hondo. James was employed by Universal Rundle Corp. for 40 years, retiring in 1988. He was very involved in his church and community. He served as Scoutmaster of Troup 219 of St. John's Church; coached Little League and Senior League baseball for 15 years; sang in the Church Choir for over 50 years; and also served on the Parish Council, serving as president for two years. His favorite pastime was woodworking with fishing running a close second. He was also an avid golfer in earlier years and one of the first members of the Hondo Golf Course when it was established. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Louis Charles Richter; and sister, Regina Marie Richter. James is survived by his wife, Clara Nell (Bright) Richter of Hondo; son, Jim Richter and wife Susie of Rockne; grandchildren, Serena Richter, Samantha Gonzales and husband Zeferino, Sara Jane Richter all of Austin; great-granddaughter, Riley Paige Stuart of Austin. The Rosary and the Memorial Mass was celebrated July 17, at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hondo with Father Paul Cleary officiating. Private interment will take place at a later date.