Richard Lee Conatser

Richard Lee Conatser, 67, of New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2024. Richard was born on November 21, 1956, in Ozark AR, to Robert and Estella (Post) Conatser. He graduated from Russellville High School (AR) in 1974 and earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Arkansas Tech University. He became one of the finest nuclear scientists and radiochemists in his field, having begun his career at Arkansas Nuclear One. His work continued at other nuclear power plants throughout the US, including Waterford 3 in Louisiana, San Onofre in California, Limerick in Pennsylvania, Comanche Peak in Texas, and Calvert Cliffs in Maryland. At the federal level, Richard worked with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in Washington DC and with the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Richard moved to the New Orleans area following his retirement. Richard loved music, his family, and the food, wine, and traditions of his Swiss and German ancestry. He also made it a priority to remain in touch with his 55 cousins. In the past 2 years while he struggled with cancer, several members of his family became caregivers and new bonds were made through music, gardening, butterfly farming, making bread, and eating ice cream. Those times will be cherished. Richard was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Conatser, Sr., brother Russell James, and sister Melissa Kaye. He is survived by his children Michael Conatser, Lusby MD, Ciel Conatser, California MD, and Julia Baird, Pittsburgh PA, one grandson Levi Baird; three sisters, Lisa Hammad (Tamim), Atlanta GA, Leanne Lefler (Martin), Conway AR, Lynne Camak (Lael), Atlanta GA; and four brothers, Robert Jr. (Tammy), Russell David, Rex (Donna), and Ross (Beverly), 19 nieces and nephews, and 7 great nieces and nephews. Visitation will take place 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Shaffer Funeral Home,2315 West Commercial Street in Ozark, AR, with a rosary at 7:30 pm. The funeral Mass and burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, April 5, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Altus AR, celebrated by Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB, and Father Reginald Udouj, OSB, of Subiaco AR. Pallbearers are Richard's son Michael and his 4 brothers. Honorary pallbearers are his cousins Roman Plugge, Jr., Chris Post, Eugene John Post, and longtime friend Mike McAnulty. Memorials can be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 5118 St. Mary’s Ln, Altus AR 72821. Online guestbook and condolences are available at Shaffer Funeral Home, https://www.shafferfuneralhomeweb.com/m/obituaries/.

Richard Lee Conatser

November 21, 1956 - March 27, 2024