Mr. Richard Tolton

Mr. Richard L. Tolton, 89, of La Porte, Indiana, died Saturday, August 25, 2012 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, IN. He was born March 23, 1923 in Michigan City, Indiana, the son of Charles Tolton and Josephine (Tickfer) Tolton. Richard graduated from Elston High School in Michigan City in 1941. He entered the U.S. Army in 1943. He attained the rank of sergeant in General George Patton's Third Army, Company #3515 MAM, a group who marched through Europe during W.W. II. He was awarded five bronze battle stars two of which were for the Normandy Campaign and the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning home he became an electrician of the I.B.E.W. Local 697, licensed real estate broker, appraiser, land developer and home builder. He also served as president of the Multiple Listing Service of Michigan City for several years. He was a life member of the VFW Post 2536 of Michigan City, IN. He is survived by his wife Alberta of 34 years. He is also survived by 6 children - Dennis R. Tolton of Englewood, FL, Rebecca S. Tolton of Indianapolis, IN, John Esposito of La Porte, IN, Patricia Tyler of Austin, TX, Charles Esposito of San Diego, CA, Julie Essling of La Porte, IN; 12 Grandchildren - Steven Tolton, Aaron, Cole and Ross Esposito, Sara Brown, Tony Fuller, Andretti and Alexandra Esposito, Kristin (Chris) Bugnitz, Matthew, Jenna and Brandon Piscione; 6 great-grandchildren. Richard was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Irene Tolton-Krantz. The family will receive friends Wednesday, August 29, 2012 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., LaPorte, IN & at the First United Methodist Church on Thursday, August 30, 2012 from 9:00 am, until time of service. A service will be held at First United Methodist Church, Thursday August 30, 2012 at 11:00 am with Rev. Evan Lash officiating. Interment will follow at the Pine Lake Cemetery, LaPorte, Indiana. The VFW and American Legion Honor Guard will conduct a Military Service at the cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church 1225 Michigan Ave. La Porte, IN 46350. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mr. Richard L. Tolton please visit our Sympathy Store.