Richard Walter Behling's Obituary
Richard Walter Behling, 78, passed away on July 29, 2025, following a prolonged illness. He was a son of the late Robert T. and LaVerne Behling of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Growing up, he was a Boy Scout and was proud to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in geology from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. After moving to Tulsa following graduation, he later earned a law degree at the University of Tulsa.
Known to his family and friends as “Dick”, he had many experiences of which he was very proud. One such experience was his ability to serve as a geology field assistant in Antarctica with his brother Bob who was doing doctoral research in Wright Valley. However, he was most proud of his ability to serve in the Wisconsin National Guard. He later transferred to the U.S. Army Reserve in Oklahoma. Finally, Dick was very proud of his home, where he tended to his gardens, and tried to keep up with his Labrador Retrievers.
In Tulsa, his geological career as a petroleum geologist included oil and gas development for Texaco, Cotton Petroleum, and several other companies as well as going out on his own, and forming R&R Resources and BRG Resources. These jobs are where he met many of his life-long friends, where endless card games and New Year’s parties took place. Dick enjoyed traveling with Julieanne on cruises across the world when they could, especially enjoying his time in Switzerland.
Dick is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Julieanne. Also surviving are his sister-in-law, Mary Behling, of Morgantown, WV; niece Alison Behling Viturawong (Tar) of Arlington, VA; nephew Andrew Behling (Melissa) of Tampa, FL; and his dear cousin Carolyn Hasey of West Des Moines, IA.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Robert E. Behling of Morgantown, WV, and cousins Charlotte Brandt, James Behling, and Janice Knull, all of Wisconsin, and his favorite pups.
Floral Haven Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements for Dick’s viewing and funeral. He will be receiving a military burial, and will be located in the military section. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations to:
Wounded Veterans of Oklahoma (www.woundedveteransofoklahoma.com)
6310 S 110th E Ave Tulsa OK 74133
Animal Aid of Tulsa (www.animalaid.org)
Animal Aid of Tulsa 6811 E 21st St Tulsa, OK 74129.
Webcasting is available at the following link for those that cannot attend in person:
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