Richard Ziegler

Richard Ziegler, 86, of Staples, MN passed away on Sunday, October 23, 2016 at Lakewood Health System Care Center in Staples, MN. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00AM, Friday, October 28, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Staples, with Father Joe Korf officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7PM, Thursday, October 27 at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples and one hour prior to services at the church. Interment will be at Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Staples. Military Honors will be provided by the Motley American Legion Post #124.

Richard Matthew Ziegler was born October 21, 1930 in Fawnlake Township to Edward and Gertrude (Weishalla) Ziegler. Richard joined the US Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict. He was a proud member of the Staples VFW. Richard married Ann Freiberg at St. Bernard's Catholic Church in St. Paul on June 30, 1955. They worked in the Twin Cities before moving their family to the Staples area in 1964. In 1970, they moved to their farm where they worked and raised their family. Richard also worked for Northern Manufacturing, retiring in 1992. Richard loved flying and worked toward a pilot license for single engine planes. He also enjoyed fishing, bowling, and excelled at horseshoes. He loved music, playing the banjo in his younger years and the harmonica his whole life. Richard cherished the time with his family. His granddaughters will always remember being called his "Tweet Hearts".

Richard is survived by his children, Marie (Ron) Weber of Duluth, Donald (Michele) Ziegler of Staples, James (Tina) Ziegler of Staples, Steve (Keri) Ziegler of Ogilvie, Deborah Ziegler of Staples, Gregory (Kate) Ziegler of Fort Ripley, Shelly Wilds of Staples, Barb (Gregory) Dvorak of Pillager; daughter in law, Kristi Ziegler of Staples; sister, Barbara DeWald of Staples; brothers, Robert and Lawrence Ziegler of Lino Lakes; 50 grandchildren and 35 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ann; son Jeff; brothers, John Ziegler and Romaine Ziegler; and sisters, Pat Austad and Viola Dukowitz. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.