Richard Kliewer

Richard Douglas Kliewer, 54, died Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton, Ks. He was born on July 15, 1968, in Wichita, Kansas, the son of Bill R. and Susan K. Kliewer. Richard had one younger brother, John P. Kliewer.

Richard accepted the Lord when he was 11 years old at a church camp. He was baptized and often shared his favorite verse that he ultimately lived out. Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your GOD will be with you wherever you go.”

Richard attended Tabor College for one year and then went on to graduate from Hutchinson Community College in 1993. He worked as a stocker and in the front end for Dillons Grocery Store for 24 years. He also spent time cleaning the Koerner Heights Mennonite Brethren Church, where he was a longtime member. Rich was excited to buy his first house in 2005 where he lived until May of this year before he moved to Kidron Bethel Village.

Richard had many interests and hobbies, from driving the “mule” at the farm to caring for the two best dogs a man could have, Lucky and Jack! But one hobby stood apart. His 1965 Ford Mustang! If you have seen it, then you know! His favorite thing to do with his dad was go to all the local car shows. He loved getting a new car show t-shirt, talking with anyone who would stop by, and, of course, ending the day with a trip to Braums…”Oh yeah!”

Rich also loved his woodworking. He would make items to share with others: personal names, nativity scenes, Christmas reindeer or even just an oven rack push/pull! There are even a few unfinished projects in his work shed of the college initials where Griff and all his friends attend.

If you knew Rich, you knew he did not have a shortage of KC Royals or Kansas Jayhawks hats or shirts! He rarely missed watching a game! He celebrated his 40th birthday at Kaufman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals, including an on-field experience and a chance to meet the team. But his favorite teams to cheer for was any team his niece and nephews were playing for.

For a simple guy, Rich had the most amazing qualities! His infectious smile made it impossible to be sad around him! Rich will forever be known for his high fives and handshakes. If you saw him coming you had better be ready for a strong grip! He was beyond joyful, never complaining or making an excuse for anything. Rich accepted the life God had planned for him and made the most of everything.

He is survived by his mother, Susan; brother John P. Kliewer and his wife Megan; niece Jessalyn Kliewer; nephews Preston and Griffin Kliewer. Richard is also survived by his aunts and uncles Dean Kliewer, Gene and Cletta Crockett, Mary Brown, Tony and Jane Grant.

Richard is preceded in death by his father, Bill, in March of this year.

Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, August 13, at Koerner Heights Church in Newton where the family will receive friends between 10:00 A.M. and service time.

A memorial has been established with Kidron Bethel Village; contributions may be sent to the funeral home.

Arrangements are by Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, Newton, Ks.