Teacher-177
Welcome to the memorial page for

Richard J Ziegler

August 23, 1939 ~ July 9, 2016 (age 76) 76 Years Old
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A candle was lit by Saint steven on May 13, 2023 5:01 AM
Message from Betty Huttenmeyer
July 25, 2016 7:03 PM

I am so sorry for your loss. May God be with all of you. I know he was loved dearly. Prayers and hugs.
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A candle was lit by Steve and Erin Sayer on July 15, 2016 6:01 PM
Message from Lori Hackbart Cook
July 13, 2016 8:37 PM

Thoughts and prayers to your family!
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A candle was lit by Lori Hackbart Cook on July 13, 2016 8:35 PM
Message from Rick Williams
July 13, 2016 8:35 AM

Would have so much liked to have been with you to celebrate 'Uncle Richard' as Angie always spoke of him. Many fond memories of family visits and conversations- with always a historical twist. I will never forget how welcomed he made me feel in marrying into the family. Richard strongly embraced the the adage of living, loving, and leaving a legacy. Much love to all, and God's blessing
and comfort to you.
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A candle was lit by Kathleen Barone on July 13, 2016 8:19 AM
Message from Tim Haughton
July 12, 2016 11:00 PM

Susie and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time with the passing of Rich. Many fond memories of Ziggy from bowling and golf. God bless you all!
Message from Ken Johnson of Unadilla
July 12, 2016 10:30 PM

Soooo very sorry, I am not going to make it to family greeting friends or Funeral services. I am having my electrical service entrance dug & I just can not make it all work out :( You all are in my thoughts & Prayers. I really wanted to attend but not sure if I could sooo soon after my dads :(
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A candle was lit by Renee Cheney on July 12, 2016 9:42 PM
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A candle was lit by George & Loretta (Scurto)Teixeira on July 12, 2016 8:53 PM
Message from Teresa (Allen) Baumli
July 12, 2016 7:28 PM

I really appreciated Mr Ziegler. Really great memories of him as a teacher and coach. My condolences.
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A candle was lit by Jr, Janet & Jon Doty on July 12, 2016 4:06 PM
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A candle was lit by Kim and Kevin Randall on July 12, 2016 1:55 PM
Expression of Sympathy

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A THE COLOR OF MEMORIES TABLE ARRANGEMENT was sent on July 12, 2016

We send our love and pray that you will find peace and comfort during this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Rick and Erika Williams

Expression of Sympathy

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A GARDEN PATH was ordered on July 12, 2016

Message from Reed Stephenson
July 12, 2016 11:05 AM

Sue, John, Maryann, Patty, I am sad to hear of Rich's passing. He was an extraordinary teacher, coach and friend. I remember when I taught across the hall from him. I don't think a day went by when I didn't stop in to talk a little history with him. I often think of my days in Syracuse and when I do Zig is always among those thoughts. I have never been around a coach who could motivate a group of athletes to work so hard to succeed for their coach and team as Zig did. He was always an inspiration for me as a coach. I will miss him but will never forget him. Love, Reed
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A TROPICAL DISH GARDEN WITH FRESH FLOWERS was sent on July 12, 2016

We are so sorry for your loss. Our children ran cross country for Waverly and we remember the races in Syracuse and at state. I work with Maryann at Creighton and I know how much her family means to her. We are thinking of you. Jeff & Julie Stading

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A candle was lit by Ron and Maryann Ramsay on July 12, 2016 8:57 AM
Message from Ron and Maryann Ramsay
July 12, 2016 8:56 AM

I served in the U.S. Army Security Agency with Rich from 1962-1964, based at Homestead AFB, FL. We had all been shipped there from other locations after JFK's Cuban Crisis speech and remained for the duration of our enlistments. To us soldiers, Rich was known only as Ziggy, or Zig.

Both Zig and I got married about the same time, 1963, and our wives joined us in FL, living off base. As two young newlywed couples, we gravitated towards each other and became fast friends, spending a lot of time together. After discharge, we ended up thousands of miles apart, but remained in touch and close throughout the years, even though we exchanged visits only a couple of times.

To say that Zig was a rare individual would be an understatement. There was never any doubt as to what he thought on any particular issue, because he always managed to verbally analyze it in, um, unique and often very humorous terms, even when he was being perfectly serious.

Zig's penchant for thriftiness was legendary, but this is probably no secret to anyone who knew him, whether in the army or civilian life. I know Suzanne has related to many the story of the traveling Christmas tree, circa Christmas, 1963.

Nevertheless, we always knew that Zig had a heart of gold and would do anything to help anyone. He just didn't want too many people to know it. He was one of our dearest friends, we loved him and will miss him terribly.

It would be nice if the Cardinals would win a World Series for him this year.



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A candle was lit by The Stones on July 12, 2016 6:40 AM
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A candle was lit by Tammy Mason on July 11, 2016 10:46 PM
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A candle was lit by Mike and Carol VanLaningham on July 11, 2016 9:58 PM
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A candle was lit by Brenda & Dana ,Nathan Anderson on July 11, 2016 8:04 PM
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A candle was lit by Brenda & Brenda & Nathan Anderson on July 11, 2016 8:01 PM
Message from Gary & Kathy Peters
July 11, 2016 7:44 PM

So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers!!!

Gary & Kathy Peters
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A candle was lit by Jenny Kastens on July 11, 2016 5:24 PM
Expression of Sympathy

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A TRADITION AND SPLENDOR was ordered on July 11, 2016

Message from John Gathje
July 11, 2016 3:06 PM

I am very sad to read about the passing of Rich. He was one of the great high school coaches in Nebraska. I always enjoyed talking with him at cross country meets. He will truly be missed.
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A candle was lit by Kris Carson (Meyer) on July 11, 2016 3:03 PM
Message from Jim and Paulette Stauffer
July 11, 2016 1:57 PM

Heaven has gain another Angel! Rest in Peace
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A candle was lit by Jim and Paulette Stauffer on July 11, 2016 1:55 PM
Expression of Sympathy

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An A GARDEN PATH was ordered on July 11, 2016

Message from Patti Cloyed (Wenzel)
July 11, 2016 1:02 PM

Zig was a great teacher !! Thinking of the entire family during this time of loss.
Cherish all the great memories.
He touch so many kids lives throughout his years in Syracuse.
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A candle was lit by Barb & Dean Neels & family on July 11, 2016 12:40 PM
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A candle was lit by Jarred and Brenda Royal on July 11, 2016 12:37 PM
Message from Dennis Venema
July 11, 2016 11:49 AM

Rest in Paradise Mr. Ziglar. You were just starting your long career when I was there. I know you made a positive impact on many students.
Message from Chad Soupir
July 11, 2016 11:10 AM

So sorry for your loss. Sending thoughts and prayers your way! He touched a lot of lives and had in impact on so many during his years as a coach and teacher!
Message from Dennis Brady
July 11, 2016 10:35 AM

My heart is saddened upon hearing of the death of Coach Ziegler. Coach Ziegler and I coached against each other for 33 years. He was a furious competitor and a man of great integrity. His teams were always well prepared. My condolences to the family. Sincerely, Dennis Brady - Auburn track and field/cross country
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A candle was lit by Rex and Suzanne Pearson on July 11, 2016 10:26 AM
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A candle was lit by Tracy Roecker and family on July 11, 2016 10:18 AM
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A candle was lit by the isaacs family on July 11, 2016 8:57 AM
Message from chris isaacs and family
July 11, 2016 8:57 AM

sending the family prayers and love. Richard was a great man who always cared for family and friends . He will be sorely missed he always made every one smile and strive to be the best in everything miss you
Message from Emily (Page) O'Ryan
July 11, 2016 8:39 AM

Omg. Mr. Ziegler. As a teacher I strive to make it so that at least one child in my school feels loved, welcomed, connected and pushed. This man was my inspiration. I will never forget my first day of high school, terrified and traveling throughout my day feeling so alone until I walked into my last class period. History with Zig. I remember this day clearly. Finally someone who knew me! High school was suddenly ok and I knew I could do it bc he was there.

Zig had been my history teacher in middle and high school and he explained the subject in an original away that most can't do today in public education bc of all the crazy, paranoid rules. He made wars come alive through his enthusiasm by standing on his desk yelling or kicking the trash can when he felt we just weren't grasping the seriousness of the lesson. He was passionate about what he taught and loved us as students. He will always be one of my favorite teachers and I'm saddened to know of his loss. Love you Zig. Thank you for everything.
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A candle was lit by Patrick and Patty Pella on July 11, 2016 8:10 AM
Message from Nina Rohlfs
July 11, 2016 7:44 AM

Well done, good and faithful servant. Rich had a positive impact on so many lives. All our kids have fond memories of their school years with him. He truly made a difference - in history knowledge, in cross-country, and in building character, for hundreds of kids.
Expression of Sympathy

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A TRADITIONAL FUNERAL BASKET was ordered on July 11, 2016

Message from Laurie (Hawkinson) Bayless
July 11, 2016 7:15 AM

John, I am sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. Over the years I have heard his voice and seen his smile in my memories. He was a good man.. Take care of yourself, Laurie <3
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A candle was lit by Frank Rothell on July 11, 2016 6:30 AM
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A candle was lit by Roxann (Warnke) Countryman on July 11, 2016 5:25 AM
Message from Kevin A. Frech
July 11, 2016 3:30 AM

Thanks for everything Zig!!
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A candle was lit by Kevin A Frech on July 11, 2016 3:29 AM
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A candle was lit by Roxanne Behling Pratt on July 11, 2016 12:47 AM
Message from Linda Buss
July 11, 2016 12:12 AM

Susie, Virginia and families,
I am so sorry to hear of Richard's passing. I really enjoyed it when you would all stop in at Hallmark! Loved listening to Richard's stories! You are in my thoughts and prayers. IMy
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A candle was lit by Debra Stoner Lamblin on July 10, 2016 11:41 PM
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A candle was lit by Adrienne Leffler (Steiner) on July 10, 2016 11:39 PM
Message from Adrienne Leffler (Steiner)
July 10, 2016 11:37 PM

I will remember you always as my favorite history teacher and you will be remembered always. Thank you for everything and much love and condolences to your wife and family.
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A candle was lit by The Clark Family on July 10, 2016 11:04 PM
Message from Eldon and Esther Buethe
July 10, 2016 10:29 PM

You couldn't find a nicer person than Rich. We came to St. John's around 1995 and he was so friendly and always greeted us. That meant a lot and he made us feel welcome. I love the pictures and sure wish I could give him another hug. He is now up in heaven with the Lord and no more pain. Our thoughts go out to you and your children as they grieve his loss but I bet there are many memories that can bring a smile to your faces. It is good to remember them. Love Eldon & Esther
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A candle was lit by Eldon and Esther Buethe on July 10, 2016 10:23 PM
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A candle was lit by Dan,Suzanne,Ryan & Leslie Sommerhalder on July 10, 2016 10:05 PM
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A candle was lit by Sheryl (Ehmke) Gaston on July 10, 2016 9:50 PM
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A candle was lit by Mike Holthus on July 10, 2016 9:47 PM
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A candle was lit by Dustin Kreifels on July 10, 2016 9:38 PM
Message from Camdenton MO
July 10, 2016 9:34 PM

So sorry to hear of His passing. I enjoyed having him as a teacher in Jr. High and Sr High at Syracuse. He was an awesome teacher for all the classes I had with him. Sure wished that I could have expressed them to him while he was still with us. God keep you all in his loving arms and we will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Sincerely, a student of his.
Ellen Minderman Moynihan
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A candle was lit by Marci (Jaspring ) and Scott Lorenzen on July 10, 2016 9:16 PM
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A candle was lit by Bill and Brenda Copley on July 10, 2016 9:14 PM
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A candle was lit by Bill and Lisa Unger on July 10, 2016 9:12 PM
Message from Ernest Neubauer
July 10, 2016 9:00 PM

What a great teacher and member of the community. I have great memories of his world history class in high school. My condolences to the family.
Message from Jackie Bates
July 10, 2016 8:47 PM

Coach was wonderfully intense and supportive during school. I remember well his belief ito encourage us as students. One special encouragement to me was nominating me for the All Star game at Peru. Thank you coach for taking us higher than we thought we could go... I am so proud of you!
Message from Sue Ziegler
October 19, 2016 7:46 PM

Jackie, thank you. That's what he was all about - making kids better.
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A candle was lit by Cathy Brummels on July 10, 2016 8:40 PM
Message from Kristi Badberg (Kreifels)
July 10, 2016 8:35 PM

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Ziegler's passing. I had him in history classes and I will never ever forget him! What an inspirational man who was loved by so many. He sure will be missed! Sending thoughts and prayers for his family.
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A candle was lit by Ryan & Ashley Beach on July 10, 2016 8:33 PM
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A candle was lit by Kristi Badberg (Kreifels) on July 10, 2016 8:31 PM
Message from Bobbi Albers
July 10, 2016 8:29 PM

I'm so sorry for your loss!!! He was an amazing man and coach!!! Rest in Peace and may God give you all strength thru this time!!!
Message from Chad Fuller
July 10, 2016 8:26 PM

So sorry for your loss. Thought and prayers go out to the family. I miss our conversations about Husker baseball.
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A candle was lit by Chad Fuller on July 10, 2016 8:23 PM
Message from Gary & Susie Lacey
July 10, 2016 8:21 PM

So sorry for your loss. He fought the fight long and hard. So hard watching the one you love suffer, but he is free now of all the pain. Thinking of you all.
Prayers
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A candle was lit by Staci Roettger Bogle on July 10, 2016 8:17 PM
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A candle was lit by Gary & Susie Lacey on July 10, 2016 8:16 PM
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A candle was lit by Melanie Farley Carlson on July 10, 2016 8:11 PM
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A candle was lit by Dick and Patty Parks on July 10, 2016 8:08 PM
Message from Larry and Colleen Naber
July 10, 2016 7:51 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
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A candle was lit by Dan and Bev Koehler on July 10, 2016 7:42 PM
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A candle was lit by Sue Mueller Madden on July 10, 2016 7:38 PM
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A candle was lit by Sharri FLetcher on July 10, 2016 7:30 PM
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A candle was lit by Marjorie Berg and Micaela Francisco on July 10, 2016 7:29 PM
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A candle was lit by Wes Farley on July 10, 2016 7:26 PM
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A candle was lit by Teresa and Bruce Liesemeyer on July 10, 2016 7:21 PM
Message from Teresa (Bro) Liesemeyer
July 10, 2016 7:21 PM

Zig was the best American history teacher you could ever hope to have. I'll never forget the day he was passionately teaching us about Aaron Burr. To make a point, he jumped up on the table from a standing position.. I was very impressed. He always knew how to get you to pay attention, and learn! I remember everything about Aaron Burr.
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A candle was lit by Sherry Bruns & Mike Guenther on July 10, 2016 7:00 PM
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A candle was lit by Janice Maguire on July 10, 2016 6:56 PM
Message from MAminderman@gmail.com
July 10, 2016 6:40 PM

So sorry for your loss. Mr. Ziegler was a wonderful teacher. I had him in American Government. Please know that you are in my prayers. Praying for Grace, peace and strength for the family and that you will experience the love of God through others along with God's comforting presence. Peace and blessings!
Annette Minderman
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A candle was lit by Steve Cathy and Joni Wilson on July 10, 2016 6:30 PM
Message from kelsey lee
July 10, 2016 4:55 PM

To the family of Richard J. Ziegler,
I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that "Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18) With sympathy,
Message from Donna armstrong
July 10, 2016 11:52 AM

Susie, I am so very sorry to hear about Rich's passing. I am currently at Kim's in Columbus.....heading home tomorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers....
With deepest sympathy, Donna
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A candle was lit by Ken Johnson on July 10, 2016 1:21 AM
Message from Ken Johnson of Unadilla Ne
July 10, 2016 1:20 AM

WOW, soooo sorry to see this , Sue & Richard been long , long long time friends & student of Sue . I know my ex step kids had Richard & I am thinking my daughter had him for a Teacher . Wow trying to think ? when Sue was my Teacher in Tecumseh ? guessing 1975 = 41 yrs ago. When you have great teachers as both of them was you NEVER FORGET THEM. Shortly after I had heart surgery use to run into them at the Gym in Syracuse. He will sure be missed my MANY. WOW :(
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A candle was lit by Ben and Lindsey Kreifels on July 9, 2016 10:36 PM
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A candle was lit by Angie & Nick Huskey on July 9, 2016 9:24 PM
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A candle was lit by Barry and Jenny Janssen on July 9, 2016 7:17 PM
Message from Jenny (Kreifels) Janssen
July 9, 2016 7:16 PM

Zig left an everlasting mark on my life as he has for so many others he taught and coached. You could always tell how Zig felt about you and it was the best feeling in the world when you made him proud after a race. He always expected you to give it your all in every race and no matter your place at the finish line he was proud...Zig, we know you gave it all in your life too-for that we will forever be proud to call you coach.
I'm on a week long family vacation so I'm fearful I'll miss the service celebrating his life. If I do-I'll go for a run just for Zig!
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A candle was lit by Tom & Peggy Frech on July 9, 2016 6:21 PM
Message from The Frechs
July 9, 2016 6:20 PM

R.I.P Ziggy
Our thoughts and prays for the family...
Rest in Peace
Message from Loretta Kuhl
July 9, 2016 5:18 PM

Susie and family. Deepest of Sympathy, We will all miss Rich and especially his history knowledge. He could help us understand the biblical background in Bible Study. May God continue to comfort all of you.
Message from Duane & Betty Krause
July 9, 2016 4:37 PM

Our hearts are saddened by the news we read. So Sorry...His Church family will miss him deeply along with family & friends. He was such an asset to our church.
He definitely fought a good fight and now is with his Lord & SaviorJesus Christ.
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A candle was lit by Duane & Betty Krause on July 9, 2016 4:26 PM
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A candle was lit by Cheryl Meister on July 9, 2016 3:30 PM
Message from Pat Behrends
July 9, 2016 3:27 PM

He's home at last. Praise God above he's home at last. I know you'll miss him, but you know where he is and he's resting in peace. Love and blessings to you all.
Message from Jack and Willie
July 9, 2016 2:00 PM

Giving the family of Richard our hearts and thoughts of prayer . May the Lord hold him in His arms and give him only peace and no more pain.
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A candle was lit by Jack and Willie Stinson on July 9, 2016 1:56 PM
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