Richard William Danforth, 89, of North Ridge in Hot Springs, Virginia died Monday, February 13, 2017 at his residence.

He was born December 31, 1927 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Irving Wilkins Danforth and Elizabeth Nicola Danforth.

Mr. Danforth was a retired Investment Banker.

He was a veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Korean War.

Mr. Danforth attended St. Luke's Presbyterian Church. He served on the board of Kingsley House in Pittsburgh and was a former trustee of Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh.

He was a member of several clubs, including The Duquesne Club in Pittsburgh, The Fox Chapel Golf Club, The Rolling Rock Club in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh Athletic Association, the Homestead Club, and The Pittsburgh Golf Club.

He was a three-time U. S. National Doubles Squash Racquets Champion, two-time Canadian National Doubles Squash Racquets Champion, and a one-time winner of the World Doubles Squash Championship.

He was a member of The Jesters Club, an International squash fraternity.

In addition to being an exceptional athlete, Mr. Danforth was an avid sports fan and rooted vigorously for all Pittsburgh sports teams. His appreciation for the beauty of Virginia’s Alleghany Mountains influenced his desire to live in Hot Springs.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Leslie McCord Danforth; two children, Richard King Danforth and wife, Nicole Golden Danforth of Ligonier, Pennsylvania and William Wallace Danforth and Patricia McLaughlin Danforth of Pittsburgh; a granddaughter, Cooper McCord Danforth of Pittsburgh.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Nicola Danforth, and his many close friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The McLaughlin & Young Funeral Home, Hot Springs, is in charge of arrangements.