Richard Dean Niswonger

On March 11, 2016, Richard Niswonger went to be with our Lord Jesus and, no doubt, to continue sharing the blessing of his musical talent with those of that heavenly realm. His life has stopped, but his music lives on.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Adam Dean & Sara Perryman, and sister, Maxine V. Niswonger. He is survived by his son, Randy Tucker & wife Brenda.

Richard attended both Oklahoma City University and Oklahoma State University. He was a WWII veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy during that historical

time. Following that service, he began a life time of sharing his musical talent as an accomplished musician, especially demonstrating skills with the saxophone, clarinet, flute, and other musical instruments. He was also well known as a talented vocalist. In addition to his own performance gifts, he also lives on through his unselfish hours of mentoring many young musicians who went on to become quite successful in their own rights. Richard’s musical entertainment schedules included years with the Hal McIntyre Orchestra, Al Good’s Orchestra, Talk of the Town, and Denise Smith’s After Hours Jazz Band.

His formal work career was spent at the Oklahoma City General Motors plant where he worked for many years, prior to his retirement. Besides spending a great deal of time with his music, he also loved to read and enjoy various sports events.

Richard was a very talented and gentle soul who will be greatly missed and long remembered by those who benefited from and enjoyed his many talents, friendship, and sweet, gentle nature. May he rest in peace after having suffered through the last three years of his life in poor health.

Memorial services will be at 1:00 pm, Friday, April 1, 2016 at Memorial Park Historic Cemetery Chapel.