Richard Jacob Stiglitz passed away peacefully on Monday December 12, 2011 at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre with his family by his side. Richard was born on December 2, 1939 the eldest son of Jacob and Helen (nee Liebrecht) Stiglitz. Richard was baptized and confirmed at Christ Lutheran Church in Rhein. He grew up on the family farm and from his childhood he gained a deep passion for farming. After graduating from Rhein School in 1959 he began working at Midwest Packers (Harvest Meats) and did so for 18 years. In 1964, Richard met a young school teacher, Arlene Masurat and on August 20, 2966 Richard and Arlene were united in Holy Matrimony at Springside. The couple lived in Rhein until they moved out to the farm in 1982. Richard and Arlene's marriage was blessed with three children, Jason, Julie and Jennifer. Richard began his battle with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis in 1985 and eventually had two liver transplants in 1993 in Edmonton. After recovering from this major surgery he continued farming. His declining health eventually forced him to cease his mixed farming operation to focus on his health. Richard had a passion for wildlife, the outdoors and his herd of cattle. His interests included a heated game of cards, visiting with neighbours, discussing local politics over a cup of coffee and nothing made him happier than riding the tractor with the baler behind. Taking care of his family was a priority for Richard. He worked tirelessly to ensure there was food on the table and wood in the stove. In later years he loved visiting his children and their evening phone calls. Richard is predeceased by his father, Jack; his mother, Helen; and his brother, Wayne. He leaves to mourn his passing and celebrate his life his beloved wife, Arlene; his son, Jason (Jenn); his daughters, Julie (Nolan) and Jennifer (Scott); his grandchildren, Bridget, Halee, Colin, Braiden, and Daniel; by his sister, Gail; and by many relatives and friends. Richard's family and friends will miss his wry sense of humour and candid comments. Funeral services were held on Friday December 16th, 2011 from Christ Lutheran Church in Rhein with Pastor Daphne Bender officiating. The organist, Loretta Herman led the congregation in the singing of the hymns, "There Is A Balm In Gilead", "Thy Holy Wings" and "Day By Day". Richard's daughter, Julie was the reader of the obituary and his son, Jason shared a heartfelt eulogy of his memories of father. Richard's daughter, Jennifer shared in the reading of the poem, "When Memory Fades". The interment followed in the Christ Lutheran Parish Cemetery with Robbie Liebrecht, Ernie Liebrecht, Bernie Achtemichuk, Randy Propp, Gordon Stiglitz and Jim Stiglitz serving as the Pallbearers. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Richard Stiglitz may be made to the Christ Lutheran Church Memorial Fund Box #156 Rhein, SK S0A 3K0. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Kopan's Funeral Service, Highway #9 north, Yorkton, SK. 783-0099
