Richard Heisler

Devils Lake

Heisler, Richard J. Born August 5th, 1935, in Esmond, ND, was a devoted husband and father, known for his hard work, self-taught mechanical, electrical, plumbing, heating and carpentry skills. Growing up as the eldest son of nine, Richard’s many responsibilities and early experiences shaped him into a resourceful and determined individual. Leaving high school at 16, venturing to Seattle, WA, briefly, before returning to ND, securing a job with the Great Northern/BNSF railroad at 17, a diverse career that spanned over 44 years.

Richard, began as a cook and worked his way up to become a signal maintainer. Despite losing his father at the age of 21, Richard took great pride in raising nine children with Patty, all of whom went on to receive a college education. The family resided in Esmond and Karlsruhe before settling in Devils Lake. Richard’s work ethic extended beyond his professional life. He dedicated time to helping others, from fixing furnaces for elderly widows to shoveling coal for the Catholic Church. He served as a School Board Member and President, along with being the Recreational Director in Karlsruhe, he installed the pubic sewer system for all residents in the city of Karlsruhe. Known for his carpentry skills, inventive spirit, and love of challenges, Richard overhauled vehicles, built and remodeled homes, and even crafted a snowmobile from scratch in 1967, using a lawnmower motor for the engine. He was frugal, always engaged in a project, and had a particular fondness for music and traveling to watch/support his kid’s/grandkid’s events.

Survived by loving and devoted best friend and wife of 65 years, Patricia. Also survived by sons & daughters, Darrell (Betty); Dean; Deanne (Michael); Doyle (Deana); Desilee (Steve); Dion (Andrea); Durene (Jay); Douglas (Sheila); and Daina (Kevin); 23 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren. Also survived by brothers Ray (Margret), Don, and Ron.

He is preceded in death by parents, Nickolas & Rose, sisters; Rosie (Neil), Virginia (Merton), Monica (Gerald), Connie, and brother Rudy. Richard’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those who loved him.

Celebration of Richard’s life Saturday, December 2nd, 2pm-4pm at St. Joseph Parish Center; 501 4th St NE; Devils Lake, ND. In lieu of flowers, memorials to, St Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Private interment.

Published by The Minot Daily News, November 29, 2023.