Richard Sakto Gene Wakole, 66, member of the Sac & Fox Tribe of Oklahoma died Sunday morning, July 17, 2016 at the Sabetha Manor, Sabetha, KS where he had been a resident for the past year.

He was born June 11, 1950 in Pawnee, Oklahoma the son of Walter and Reba L. Cadue Wakole.  He graduated from Chilocco Indian High School and furthered his education at Kansas University and Haskell Indian Junior College both in Lawrence.

Richard worked as a welder and mechanic for all of his working life.  
His job took him to many different areas but his favorite was working for the Alaskan Pipeline, which he was very proud of.  Richard had a love for cars.  His family describes him as a very kind stern man, and practical joker.

Richard married Debra Matchie-Wakolee October 18, 1980.  They were together for over 27 years and married for 26 years.   She survives in Holton, KS.

Other survivors include sons; Charles and wife Justine Wakole of Circleville, KS, and Guy Wakole of Horton, KS, daughters; Charli Wakole of Horton, KS, Tia Wakole of Anchorage, Alaska, Carmen Wakole of Holton, KS Valerie Blackbird of Apache, OK, Heather Matchie of Topeka, KS, and Dawn Matchie of Mayetta, KS, brothers; Rocky and wife Marlene Wakole of Horton, KS, Byron and wife Priscilla of Willis, and Steven Wakole, Sr. of Horton, KS, sisters; Sally Wakole of Horton, KS, Georgia Wakole of Horton, KS, Shirley Wakole of Stroud, OK, Debra Wakole of Shawnee, OK, and Pamela Wakole of Pryor, OK.  Also surviving are numerous grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and a brother; Gregory Wakole in childhood.

Kennekuk Church Services will be held Wednesday, July 20, 2016 at Kickapoo Community Building with burial on Thursday July 21, 2016 at the Kennekuk Cemetery.  A special message may be sent to the family at www.dishon-maple-chaney.com