Date of Death: September 3, 2015
SIES – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Samuel Sies. He died peacefully at his home on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015 at 83 years of age.
Richard was born on the family farm to Samuel and Katherine Sies. He met Kathe Kalinka, the love of his life and soul mate, in the spring of 1969. They were married the following year in November after he was done harvesting. Richard remained on the family farm his entire life — it was where he was born and raised, where his wife and children joined him, and where he eventually passed away.
Richard loved curling, fishing and farming. He took numerous heavy duty mechanic courses over the years and fixed farm equipment until his passing. He was well known and respected throughout the area for his mechanical abilities. Richard’s bold laughter and love became a part of all his family.
After losing his beautiful wife Kathe, life became difficult and sometimes stagnant. He loved his children with all his heart and that is what inspired him for so long.
Richard was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Katherine (nee Haas) Sies; his beloved wife, Kathe; sisters, Regina and Irene; and brothers, Victor and Gordon.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Horst (Gladys) Neumann of Golden, BC, Angelika (Andy) Sharpe of Saskatoon, SK and Arlene (Gordon) Serediak of Kamloops, BC; nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; brothers, Mervin (Georgina), Winston (Elaine) and Arthur (Marie); and sister, Marion (Glenn); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
A funeral service was held for Richard on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015 at Matthews Funeral Home, Melville with Pastor Rick Gibson officiating. A tribute to his life was given by Stuart Sies, and special music was provided by Ursula Pfeiffer-Strautman who sang, “In the Garden” and “How Great Thou Art.” The organist, Gaylene Matthews, led in the congregational hymn, “Amazing Grace.” All of Richard’s family and friends were considered honorary pallbearers.
Interment took place in the Melville City Cemetery with Ryan Wilson, Kelly Neumann, Travis Neumann, Dezarae Schuck, Amanda Serediak, Jonathon Serediak, Kristopher Philip and Christopher Wilson acting as pallbearers.
Arrangements were entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home, Melville.
