Richard Thier

RICHARD JOHN THIER, age 89, of Adrian, died Friday, January 23, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 7, 1936, in Adrian, to Cyril and Isabel (Ahlers) Thier. He lived a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. His first love was cattle farming, a calling he embraced at an early age. When he was just 12 years old, Dick took on the responsibility of feeding the cattle while his father recovered from an injury-an early moment that reflected the dependability and work ethic that would define his life.

A dedicated farmer and tireless worker, Dick believed in early mornings, steady effort, and doing things right. He was known for his big smiles, quiet humor, and love of life's simple pleasures-especially sweets, which he rarely passed up. Those who knew Richard also knew that he never spoke poorly of others; he chose kindness, fairness, and understanding, even when things were difficult.

Despite once declaring he would never marry a teacher, Dick fell in love with Alice Korn, and after a short courtship prompted by the upcoming silo filling, the two were married in 1972. Together, they were perfect partners, working side by side to raise four children on the farm. Their life together was built on teamwork, shared values, plenty of laughter, and deep respect for one another.

Dick took great joy in his grandchildren and followed their lives and activities with pride. He loved to tease them and was especially known for keeping candy hidden in his pocket, always ready to share a sweet treat and a smile. His grandchildren affectionately called him "Papa Teaser." Time spent with them brought him immense happiness, and his love for them was felt in both big moments and small traditions. He also enjoyed playing pinochle and was often suspected of cheating-an accusation he met with a grin and the claim that he was "not sure of the rules." His hearty laughter and gentle teasing will be fondly remembered.

He was a devoted member of St. Adrian Catholic Church and lived his faith quietly but strongly. His beliefs guided his life and sustained him through both hard years and good ones. In addition to his faith, Dick was committed to serving others, supporting farmers throughout the region by serving on various agricultural boards, and giving his time and leadership as a member of the church board at St. Adrian. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus; and the St. Josephs Society. He also served his country in the United States Army. His legacy lives on through his family, the farm he worked, and the values he passed down-hard work, faith, humility, service, kindness, and love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Dick is survived by his wife, Alice Thier, Adrian; children, Krista (Todd) Feustel, Mahtomedi; Amy (Mitch) Meyers, Brandon, SD; Mark (Maria) Thier, Worthington; and Ryan (Stephanie) Thier, Rushmore; sixteen grandchildren, Megan, Drew and Mackenna Feustel; Elise, Nathan (fiancé, Katie), Addison and Jacey Meyers; Maranda, Marisa, Mara, Marik, Ryker, Lucy, Stella, Hazel and Wren Thier; sisters, Virginia Knips, Sioux Falls, SD; Eileen Hokeness, Adrian; and Betty (Delbert) Gonnerman, Benson; brother, Donald (Barbara) Thier, Worthington; brothers and sisters-in-law, Irene Dylla, Mankato; Tim (Chris) Korn, Fairmont; and Ray (Rhonda) Korn North Carolina; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Luverne and Ethel Korn; brothers, Gerald, Cyril Jr, Leo and Bernard Thier; sister, Mary Ann; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert Knips, Eugene Hokeness, Joni Thier, Diane Thier, Lonnie Dylla, and Ron Korn.

Visitation will be from 4-7 pm Monday, Jan. 26 at St. Adrian Catholic Church, in Adrian, with Parish Prayers at 4 pm; visitation also one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am Tuesday at St. Adrian Catholic Church officiated by Monsignor Richard Colletti. Burial with full military honors provided by the Adrian American Legion will be in the St. Adrian Cemetery.

Dingmann Funeral Home, in Adrian, is in charge of arrangements.