Richard Wills has not been seen alive since he left for work on Easter morning. Supplied: Victoria Police

The wife of a man whose body was found buried in a shallow grave days after he went missing says the 65-year-old will be missed dearly by his grandchildren.

Richard Wills was last seen leaving his Hughs St home in the small Victorian town of Ouyen about 8am on Easter Sunday but failed to return home for lunch.

Police were told Mr Wills had gone to work on his rural property on the Mallee Highway, which was his normal routine.

He was reported missing the following day.

His body was found buried in a shallow grave during an assisted search of the rural property about 1.30pm on Tuesday.

Richard Wills, 65, was last seen alive on Easter morning. Supplied: Victoria Police

The 65-year-old was fatally shot, with Victoria Police missing persons detective senior sergeant Steve Trewavas saying Mr Wills’ death was clearly “foul play”.

“Sadly, Richard has clearly met with foul play,” he said.

“What is still unclear is exactly who was involved, and why.

“We are very keen to speak to anyone who may have any knowledge of the circumstances which led to his death and who was responsible.

“We’re hoping that this appeal leads to someone coming forward and doing the right thing – it can be done anonymously – so that we can hold those responsible to account.”

Wills’ body was found in a shallow grave on his rural Ouyen property in northeast Victoria. Picture: Google

Mr Wills’ wife, Donna, says they have “lots of grandkids that are going to miss him” while speaking at a press conference on Saturday, according to the Herald Sun.

“If he saw someone stopped on the side of the road he’d be the one who would turn around, go back, and make sure they were alright,” she said, according to the outlet.

Anyone who saw Richard on Easter Sunday or who may have any information regarding his death is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.