Richard Alan Schlecker, 81, of Elkton, MD, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 15, 2025. He was born in Philadelphia, PA, on January 12, 1944, to the late Louis Alan Schlecker and Lucille Ellen (Sarginger) Schlecker.

Richard was a U.S. Army Veteran and performed in the Army Field Band during the Vietnam era. A graduate of the Curtis Institute, Richard performed string bass in the Baltimore Symphony. After leaving music as a full-time profession, he continued to be active in the music community as a regional orchestra musician with the Delaware Symphony, the Lancaster Symphony, and numerous other organizations.  He also volunteered with the Susquehanna Symphony. Following his music career, he founded Maryland Canvas and Awning. He is the original owner of a number of patents for innovations he developed in the industry.  Always eager to explore new interests, he worked over the years as a mechanic, truck driver, and in the marine industry. Richard has always been active with the Boy Scouts of America, and received the honor of being inducted into the Order of the Arrow. Richard was an avid sailor as well, working with others to reinstate the charter for Havre de Grace Yacht Club and serving as its commodore. Richard and others also started the tradition of Thursday night sailboat racing in Havre de Grace.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife: Tina Harris Schlecker; his children: Louis Alan Schlecker (Katie), Thomas Alan Schlecker (Molly), and Victor Walter Schlecker; his brother: Karl Schlecker (Robin); his sister: Linda Cesare; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his late parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter: Louise Ellen Schlecker and brother-in-law: Don Cesare.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025 from 1:00 until 4:00 at the American Legion, post 135 in Perryville, MD. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 11:00AM at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921 where family and friends are welcomed to join at 10:00AM. Burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to: “Shriners Children’s,” “Wounded Warrior Project,” or “Cecil County Animal Services;” sent in care of R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A. (259 East Main Street, Elkton, MD 21921).