Richard Liske
Nov. 3, 1931 – May 9, 2026
Richard Liske
Richard Gust Liske, age 94, of Herron, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, in Alpena where he was born on Nov. 3, 1931.
He was the son of the late Otto and Sarah (Suderman) Liske and grew up with the values of hard work, faith, and family that would guide him throughout his life. Richard was a gentle man whose steady presence, kind spirit, and quiet strength touched the lives of those who knew him. He lived a life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community, and he will be remembered with love and respect by all who were fortunate enough to share in his life.
Richard was drafted into the Army during the Korean War, where he served his country honorably. Following his service, he returned home and built a life centered on honest work and perseverance. He owned and operated a bulldozing company, a business that reflected his strong work ethic and practical nature. Richard was also a farmer at heart, spending many years involved in both dairy farming and working the fields. He found satisfaction in labor that was honest and necessary, and he approached every responsibility with determination and care.
On June 10, 1961, Richard married Phyllis Beyer at St. Matthew Church, beginning a lifelong partnership of 64 years filled with devotion and shared memories. Together, they built a family and a home grounded in love and commitment. Phyllis remained a cherished companion throughout his life, and their marriage was a source of strength and joy. Richard is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his children, Kevin (Karen) Liske, Pam (Paul) Richardson, and Nancy (Doug) Kussrow; and his grandchildren, Bradley, Joel, and Holly Kussrow, who brought him great pride and happiness.
Family meant everything to Richard, and he especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, and he took great interest in the lives of those he loved. He is also survived by his sister, Jeanette Manning, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Donald Liske, Viola Beyer, and Ferris Liske.
Richard gave generously of his time and energy to his community as a volunteer firefighter for Wilson Township. His willingness to serve others reflected the dependable and caring nature for which he was known. He was also a longtime member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, where his faith remained an important part of his life. In his later years, after retirement, he took up golfing and enjoyed the pastime with the same quiet enjoyment he brought to so many of life’s simple pleasures.
He and Phyllis also enjoyed wintering in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where they made memories together and found time to relax and enjoy life. Richard enjoyed spending time with friends and family at the camp he built. He also enjoyed deer hunting, a favorite pastime that connected him to the outdoors and to traditions he valued. Whether working, serving, or spending time with family, he lived with humility and purpose.
Richard is at McWilliams Funeral Home where family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visiting will resume on Thursday at St. Matthew Church in Herron from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. with Rev. Leslie Nye officiating. Interment will be at King Settlement Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to St. Matthew Church and/or Compassus Hospice.
