Richard L. Thies

Mr. Richard L. Thies, age 73, went to the Lord Wednesday, January 16, 2008, following a brief illness. Richard was born March 3, 1934 to Herman and Ruby (James) Thies in Zimmerman, MN. He was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. He was employed at LiftTech as a draftsman for 35 years, retiring in 1999. Richard also served 22 years in the Michigan Army National Guard 1436th Engineering Company, retiring in March of 1981, at the rank of Sergeant First Class. Richard enjoyed the outdoors, painting, woodworking, was a sports enthusiast, and stayed involved with his church where he participated in the men's club. He is survived by his children, Janice Thies and Steven Thies of Muskegon, Dyana (Stephen) Jones of Allentown, PA, and John E. Thies; 3 grandchildren, Jeremy Maycroft, Steven Thies, Jr., and Kayleigh Thies; 2 great-grandchildren, Aryanna Maycroft and Jacie Thies; 4 siblings, Charles (Leida) Thies, Carol (Henry) Wichter, James Thies, and Harley (Evelyn) Thies, all of Muskegon; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and other loved ones. SERVICES will be 11:00 AM Monday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (1215 Apple Ave.) with Rev. Robert J. Conradt officiating. VISITATION will be 4-6 PM Sunday at The Sytsema Chapel Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. 737 Apple Avenue (231) 726-5210 and 1 hour prior to the service at the church. MEMORIALS may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.