Richard H. Lemken Sr.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Loretta and Nicholas Lemken and five of his brothers.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marlene Lemken, six children: Cynthia Blackburn, Pamela Silvius, Richard Lemken Jr, Timothy Lemken, Lisa VanVleet and Daniel Lemken (his angel sent straight from heaven). Additionally he also raised two of his grandchildren as his own, Aimee Murad and Jessica Villmer. Also left to cherish his memory are his grandchildren, John Richard Blackburn, Andrew Blackburn, Kaitlin VanVleet, Dallas VanVleet,and Shayna VanVleet, thirteen great-grandchildren and one brother, Bernard Lemken.

The joy of his youth was serving at the Altar of God at Redemptorist Catholic Church. During the years 1952 through 1956 Richard served his country as a member of the Navy during the Korean War.

Retiring after 29 years as a diesel mechanic and foreman at the Santa Fe Railroad, he then enjoyed traveling with his family and his most treasured handicapped son, Daniel.

Richard was a selfless man, always willing to give what he had to his family. He disliked being idle and always wanted to be doing something. As a true Kansas City man he maintained his loyalty to the Royals and Chiefs.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to "Friends of JCDS" (Johnson County Developmental Supports) www.friendsofjcds.com in the name of Daniel Lemken.