Richard J. Schleicher

Richard John Schleicher passed away on September 16, 2021, in Echo, Oregon from a tragic car accident while traveling to a bull riding event. He was born on November 5, 1996, to Harold and Debra (Faber) Schleicher in Hays, KS. Richard grew up the youngest of five children in Stockton, KS. At the young age of 4, Richard got his first taste of excitement he had for bull riding while attending his first rodeo with his parents. By age 6, he began competing at Little Britches and Junior High Rodeos. He graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 2015 before moving to Nevada, MO to attend Missouri Welding Institute. With bull riding still in his blood, he got his PRCA card and competed in as many rodeos as he could. An inspiration to many of his fellow bull riders and friends, he was known not only for his grit and love for the sport; but also his contagious laugh, constant smile and personality that lit up a room, his sense of humor and sincerity, his crazy dance moves, and beautiful singing voice. He was a young man chasing a dream, but as his chaps read, “Faith Over Fear”, he truly lived his dream. He also enjoyed fishing, hiking, golf, and snowboarding. He loved his family and friends, his rodeo community, and would do anything for anyone. Although our hearts are weighing heavy during this difficult time, for he was taken so suddenly, we can find comfort in knowing that Richard is at peace in Heaven with our Lord Jesus Christ. We all have so many memories, stories, and have had wonderful times with him. Those are the things that we will cherish forever. He will be remembered with love. As he would often say, “Can I get a hoo-yaa”?! Richard is survived by his parents, Harold and Debra Schleicher of Stockton; grandmother, Shirley Faber of Clare, MI; brothers: Justin Schleicher of Houston, TX and Christopher Schleicher and wife Kayla of Buena Vista, CO; and sisters: Casey Lynn Polteraitis and husband Saulius of Detroit, MI and Molly McMullen and husband Carson of Grand Island, NE. Richard joins in heaven his grandparents: Frank Faber and Richard and Irma Schleicher. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 10:30 AM at the Webster State Park Townsite/Swim Beach. Park Permits are required, please purchase prior to service. Memorials are suggested to Richard Schleicher Memorial Fund, to be designated by the family at a later date, and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.