Obituary of Sgt. Richard H. Thrasher, US Army, ret.

    Sgt. Richard H. Thrasher, US Army, ret., 87, of Utica, was called home by the Lord on Monday, February 19, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

     Richard was born in Utica, on July 22, 1936, the son of Floyd and Dorothy (Roberts) Thrasher. He was raised in Utica and educated at St. Francis de Sales High School. On February 2, 1963, Richard was united in marriage with Marilyn Bowen, a loving and devoted union of 61 years. Richard proudly served his country in the US Army, during the Korean War and Vietnam War, retiring after 20 years of dedicated service. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he went to work as a chef, with Hart Hill Inn in Whitesboro, where he cooked for two US Presidents as well as Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North. He later was employed as a cook with the Eastern Star Nursing Home in Oriskany. Richard enjoyed working in his yard and gardening, especially with his daughter, Marie, and was always helping his wife around the house as well as with her crafts. He also was an exceptional cook and enjoyed doing puzzles and puzzle books.  Richard’s Catholic faith and strong belief in the Lord Jesus Christ was a very important part of his life.

     Mr. Thrasher is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; one son, Casmire J. (Nancy) Misiaczek, Jr.; four daughters, Evelyn Broeckel, Kim (Kenneth) Snow, Marie (Desi, Sr.) Welch and Julieann (Todd) Moyer; one sister, Edith Croft and one brother, Lon (Maryann) Thrasher, Sr., as well as 14 cherished grandchildren, 18 adored great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his grandson, Joseph Todd Moyer, Jr; son-in-law, William Broeckel and several brothers and sisters.

     Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Richard’s funeral service on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. He will be laid to rest, with military honors in Grandview Cemetery in Whitesboro. Visitation for family and friends is Friday, February 23^rd from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

     Mr. Thrasher’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Wynn Hospital for the wonderful care and compassion you provided to Richard.