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Richard Eugene Froelich of Nowata, Oklahoma passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, at his home in Nowata. Richard is one of three children, he shared his life with two sisters, Sylvia Shipley and Pat Woldridge. Richard was born on June 22, 1955, to Art Froelich and Virgina (York) Froelich in Nowata, Oklahoma.
Richard attended Alluwe School where he graduated from. Richard has been a long-time member of the Nowata Fire Department, serving a amazing run of almost 25 years serving his community. In addition to serving Nowata, Richard was also blessed to serve Bernice and Vinita Fire Department alongside his son Ashley. Richard made a career working for Nordam serving a 13-year run before retiring. One of his greatest loves in his life was his wife and family. On February 12, 1988, Richard married his beautiful wife Sharon, they adventured the world both together and separate. Richard joined the Army where he was in Desert Storm as his wife stayed in the states starting a Desert Storm Support Group to show her love for his brave actions. Richard was a very proud Father and even more of a gracious loving grandfather and great grandfather. Richard was a kind soul that would help anyone if they needed it, at the time of his passing he was still serving as Assistant Fire Chief providing knowledge and experience for the incoming fire fighters. He will be missed by all, and memories will be cherished that were spent with him as he forever lives in our hearts.
Survivors include his three children; Ashley Froelich, Marshal Froelich and Michael Hicks; One sister Pat Woldridge; Nephews Mike and Kelly; One niece Julie, 10 Grandchildren and 14 Great grandchildren.
Richard is preceded in death by his Wife Sharon, Both Parents and his sister Sylvia Shipley.
A Funeral Service for Richard will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 1:00 PM at the First Church of God in Nowata, Oklahoma with Pastor Wendell Abbott officiating. Interment to follow at Martin Cemetery in Childers, Oklahoma. The family will receive guests at Benjamin Funeral Home in Nowata, Oklahoma, Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Service of Nowata.
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114 West Cherokee, Nowata, OK 74048

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