Richard was born to D. Owen and Phyllis B. Thygerson on Sept 21, 1943 and died February 26, 2012. They preceded him in death along with his oldest son, Kevin Richard. He married Barbara J. Hake on December 3, 1988 after meeting at work. He spent the remainder of his time experiencing life with her and their two dogs, Hannah and Midge.

From a previous marriage his children are Kevin, Craig, Kent, Marie, Kimberli, Camilla, Joyelle, and Sharity. Joyelle spent some important moments in his life recently and sharing his two grandsons, Xander and Aidan Cope. Craig has been in contact as well, which was a welcome surprise and joy. Marie Stevenson (Andrew) has been a fierce protector and advocate for her father and freely shared our 7 grandchildren Katelyn, Tyler, Ryan, Kiah, Cameron, Caitlin, and Heather. Katelyn and Terron Bartz are making him a great grandfather in September 2012. Barb’s sons, Robert P. Southern (Linda) and Noel E. Southern (Becca), treated and respected him like a father. Richard also shared great joy with Rob’s children, Claire, Jordan, and Izzy as well as Noel’s Caitlin, Ivan, Donovan, and Robert.

Richard retired from Youth Corrections in 2008 to enjoy life. He was a lover of hunting and all aspect of that sport. There wasn’t a Mountain Man Rendezvous he didn’t attend without great enthusiasm. His twin brother, Robert (womb mate) shares the same enthusiasm for the outdoors. Robert also shared his children, Heather, Mike, Mark, Amy, Emily, Adam, and Aaron. Thank you for all your endeavors to fix, cut, hammer, and haul off stuff for your uncle. I cannot name all who influenced him and gained his respect …just know he was eternally grateful.