Richard Franklin "Dick" Kiser passed away peacefully in Houston, Texas on April 4, 2024 at the age of 93. Born on the family farm in Wilton, Iowa on December 4, 1930 to Franklin and Ruth Kiser (nee Britten), Richard was the younger brother of Betty Kiser Hugill (deceased) and Myron Kiser (deceased).

Richard is survived by his wife, Phyllis Emily Kiser (nee Patterson), daughter Susan Groudle (Tim), son Jim, grandchildren Abigail Kiser, Stephanie Groudle (husband Rett Harbert), Nick Kiser, Jennifer Groudle, Jonah Kiser, Irma Kiser and great grandsons Theodore and Luke Kiser.

Richard and Phyllis were married on September 3, 1960. It was a wonderful union lasting nearly 64 years.

Richard lived a life of service which began after high school, when he enlisted in the Marine Corps, and fought bravely in the Korean War. His courage and valor in the face of adversity at the Chosin Reservoir earned him a Purple Heart, a testament to his heroism and dedication to his country.

After returning home, Richard enrolled at the University of Iowa. At Iowa City he earned a degree in Civil Engineering, a field that would define his professional life for years to come. Richard's first job was with US Steel's American Bridge Division, where he worked in various locations including the Gary Works in Indiana, Long Beach, CA, Chicago, and finally the home office in Pittsburgh. Richard worked on many important projects in his career, including the Alaska Pipeline and the New River Gorge bridge in West Virginia. After retiring from US Steel, Richard continued working for many years for smaller firms, most notably on the refurbishment of Pittsburgh International Airport.

Dick lived a life of service in his off hours as well. He was a long-time volunteer at Trinity United Methodist Church, devoting many hours to maintaining the church buildings and grounds. He also supervised a major new construction project at the church. Dick was a Meals on Wheels driver and delivery person for two decades. He was a man of faith, who believed in giving back to his church and his community. Most importantly, Richard was a wonderful husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend. He was a coach, mentor and supporter to many. Richard's kindness, warmth, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Richard enjoyed visiting with his crew of friends for coffee daily at the local McDonalds in McMurray. He was a warm and engaging companion and had a dry wit. Dick was a good listener and an excellent storyteller. He loved keeping up with world events and was known for his many recurring witticisms and observations about life.

Dick rarely missed an Iowa football or basketball game. He had a true love and loyalty for his alma mater, win or lose. He was also became a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bulls. His passion for the teams brought him joy and tied him to his local community.

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Kingwood on Saturday, May 18 at 11:00. His ashes will be interred at the Houston National Military Cemetery on Monday, May 20.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Richard Kiser to Meals on Wheels at https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/