Richard Tikalsky

Richard F. Tikalsky, age 80, of New Prague, died peacefully at home with his family at his side on Friday, May 17, 2024. Richard was born on March 3, 1944, in New Prague, to James and Bessie (Pikal) Tikalsky and attended New Prague Public Schools. He married Jeanne A. Pumper on July 31, 1968, in Cleveland, Minnesota. He spent his career working as a roofer. His favorite job, however, was probably driving bus for the Montgomery School District for the many special education students who graced his life.

Richard’s life was all about service, giving to others long before he met his own needs. His family was the center of his life, and most particularly his grandchildren. He enjoyed monkey shines with them and could be counted on for $5 coffee money every time he saw them (of course up from the traditional $1 coffee money due to inflation!) In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, was an avid fisherman, and enjoyed cards, especially Black Bottom Poker. He loved sitting on the front porch, a bowl of candy at his side, watching the birds. But he loved nothing more than a bowl of ice cream every day and sometimes multiple times a day! His gentle kindness and fun-loving nature will be sorely missed by his family and all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne of New Prague; children, Mary (Michael) Counter of Le Sueur, Paul ( Susan) Tikalsky of New Prague, Sarah Fynboh of Elko, Rebekah (Philip) Bisek of Webster; grandchildren, Shandi (Ethan) Nelson, Shawn Counter, Alexis Counter, Melissa Tikalsky, Adam Tikalsky, Elizabeth Bisek, Sophie Bisek; great-grandchildren, Brayden & Wyatt; siblings, Dorothy Schoenbauer of New Prague, George Tikalsky of New Prague, Marcie Cook of Prior Lake, Emil (Bonnie) Tikalsky of New Prague. He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Peter Tikalsky in 2016.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM at FaithPoint Lutheran Church with Reverend Dr. Steve Trewartha officiating. Visitation will take place at church from 9-11 AM. Lunch will follow the service in the church hall.