Richard L. Kleider

Graveside Services for Richard L. Kleider, 93, of Battle Creek, will 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 2, 2022 at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Battle Creek.  Reverend Joseph Leech will officiate.  Steffen Mortuary in Battle Creek is in charge of arrangements.

Richard passed away Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at the Community Pride Care Center in Battle Creek.

Richard Lowell was born March 9, 1929 in Norfolk, Nebraska to Ernest and Minnie (Wegner) Kleider. Richard was baptized March 13, 1929 and confirmed on April 29, 1945 at St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. He attended District 38 School near Battle Creek.  Their family farm was located southwest of Battle Creek, now known as the Oak Valley Game Reserve. Their 1908 windmill has been placed at the Parks of Pride Arboretum in Battle Creek.

Richard contracted polio and developed cerebral palsy in his childhood.  Despite his ailments, Richard farmed and took care of his parents and sister, Frances.  He retired from farming in 1979.

In 1999, he was named the Outstanding Citizen of Battle Creek.  Richard was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Minnie, sister Frances, and an infant brother.

Richard is survived by his cousins and extended family and friends.    

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