Richard Lee Thrower (Birddog), 58, of Galena died Friday, July 1, 2022 at his home surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. Born June 3, 1964 in Baxter Springs, Richard was the son of Hershell and Roberta (Adams) Thrower. He was a lifetime area resident. He graduated from Baxter High School with the class of 1982.
As a small boy, Richard led in his dad’s footsteps as he was always around an 18 wheeler and as soon as he was old enough he became a truck driver. He drove many years, having to retire at age 57. He was a man who loved sports of any kind. He grew up playing sports in school and played slow pitch softball as an adult, meeting many good friends along the way. As his kids got old enough, he helped coach their teams for several years. If he wasn’t coaching on the field, he coached from the stands, never missing a game. He was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan as well as the Kansas City Royals.
In his younger years, Richard loved coon hunting, playing golf, going fishing and occasionally taking a trip to the casinos with his daughter, Jara. He loved spending time with his family and watching any sport on TV. He loved camping and a good game of washers with good friends.
Richard is survived by his wife, Kristi (Click) Thrower of 27 years; three children, Kelly Thrower, Kyle Thrower and Jara Williams (husband Bryceston); two bonuses, Justin Click (wife Shaylean) and Shalea Duesterhaus (husband Cale); four grandchildren, Andrew Bullette, Sylie Click, Gunner Duesterhaus, Christofer Click; a special surprise before passing, soon to be, Baby Williams, which is a blessing grandbaby number five; sister, Robin Gilmore (husband Kevin); sister-in-law, Kelley Walker (husband Mike); niece, Kayla Edmondson (husband Riley); nephew, Joshua Walker; great nieces, Kylie, Kensi, Kelsie, and Remi; and very dear friends, Frank and Audra Merrill.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Hershell and Roberta Thrower and little brother, Randy Thrower.
Family night will be Friday, July 8 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at House of Prayer Church in Riverton.
Memorial service (Celebration of Life) will be Saturday, July 9 at 11 a.m. at House of Prayer Church in Riverton.
His remains have been cremated. Burial will be at a later date. Flowers will be accepted at 1008 Joplin St. Galena, KS. 66739: addressed to Kristi Thrower.