Richard W. Eichler

Richard W. Eichler, a devoted family man with a passion for the outdoors, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, February 16, 2024 at the age of 88. Born on July 11, 1935, in Oneonta, NY, he was the son of Elmer and Marguerite (Montgomery) Eichler.

Richard's journey in life was marked by dedication and love. He married the love of his life, Susan Flint, on September 16, 1961, in a beautiful ceremony at the Methodist Church in Cooperstown, after a year-long courtship. Their union was a testament to enduring love, lasting for 62 years.

Throughout his life, Richard found fulfillment in his work and his hobbies. He began his career at the D&H Railroad before transitioning to labor for Neil Neilson Construction. Following his service in the US Army, where he served honorably, Richard returned to work for Neil Nielson. He later dedicated 25 years of service to SUNY Oneonta before retiring.

Richard's true priorities lay in his family and his beloved pastimes of fishing and hunting. He found immense joy in passing down his knowledge and love for the outdoors to his grandsons, teaching them the art of fishing and hunting.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Susan Eichler; his loving son, Steve, and daughter-in-law, Jill Eichler; cherished granddaughter, Ali Eichler, and her partner, Drake Garcia; beloved grandsons, William and Danielle Craft, and Jeremy Craft; adored great-grandchildren, Rylieigh Ann and Joel Craft; caring sisters, Agnes Lindsley and Ruth Grant; his brother, Bruce Eichler; sister-in-law, Marie Eichler; and special cousin, Larry Eichler. He is also remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews and special friends, Lynda and Joel Craft, Richard Couse, RT Jordan and Mike Chase.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Marguerite Eichler, and four brothers, Elmer, Robert, Albert, and Sonny.

Richard’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Jamie Craft and Liz Collins for the wonderful care they gave to Richard and the ability for him to remain in his home and Dr. Njoku and Dr. Zhou and the Nurses and Dr’s at Fox Hospital.

There will be no calling hours. A graveside service to honor and celebrate Richard's life will be held in the spring at Milford Center Cemetery, Milford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helios Care, Inc., or the Susquehanna SPCA, organizations that were close to Richard's heart.