Obituary of Richard Birkmeyer

Richard John Birkmeyer, 84, of Lockport, New York succumbed to Alzheimer's disease at his home surrounded by his family on September 21, 2013. Richard was the son of the late Joseph and Clara (Solly) Birkmeyer. Richard is survived by his wife Betty of 64 years, daughters Linda Miller (Roger), Marcia Keller (Walt), Bonnie Birkmeyer, son Dr. Richard C Birkmeyer (Kim), grandchildren Eric, Scott, Cherie , Adam, Sarah, Sabrina, Allan, Justin, and Kyle, and 10 great-grandchildren. Richard was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to all. Richard was descended from a long line of bricklayers and owned Lockport Firebrick &amp; Supply. He was awarded a lifetime membership in the Union of Bricklayers &amp; Allied Craftworkers after working as a bricklayer for 50 years. His work took him all over the country. His family often joined him on the road and they have many memorable stories from those days traveling in their family trailer. In recent years, Richard enjoyed many family vacations, travelling throughout the US. Richard was a member of the Lockport Alliance Church Royal Reapers group and enjoyed their fellowship. He was a former attender of St. John's Catholic Church. He enjoyed collecting sports cards and coins. He was an avid card-player, often at the Dale Association, and never passed up an opportunity to play canasta. Richard loved family get-togethers and took great joy/pride in celebrating family weddings, births, and Holiday dinners. Visitation will be from 2-4 and 7-9 on Wednesday, September 25 at Prudden and Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St, Lockport. A Vigil Service will be held Wednesday evening at 7 PM with Fr. James Waite. Funeral services for Richard will be at Lockport Alliance Church, 555 Davison Road, Lockport, NY at 10:00 on Thursday, September 26. Richard will be laid to rest at the Cold Springs Cemetery in Lockport, NY following the service. Memorial donations may be made to Lockport CARES, PO Box 586, Lockport 14095. <h3>Visitation</h3> Visitation will be from 2-4 and 7-9 on Wednesday, September 25. <h3>Services</h3> Funeral services for Richard will be at Lockport Alliance Church, 555 Davison Road, Lockport, NY at 10:00 on Thursday, September 26. <h3>Interment</h3> Richard will be laid to rest at the Cold Springs Cemetery in Lockport, NY following the service.