Richard Koller, 81, of Mitchell, SD, SD, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
What follows is a brief look at the life his family wishes to share.
Richard's story began in 1944, and unfolded across the years that followed.
Richard spent his working life as ['meat cutter for decades at various locations', 'parts guru at Champion Auto parts in Sioux City'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
There is a wisdom that only years can give. Richard carried it gently.
Richard Dwight Koller, 81, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at the Firesteel Nursing Home in Mitchell, SD. He was born on April 8, 1944, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and lived in Parker, SD, with his parents and sisters Jean and Joan.Richard graduated from Parker High School in 1962 and soon after attended the National School of Meat Cutting in Toledo, Ohio. This training set the course for his lifelong career. He worked as a meat cutter for decades at various locations, including Yankton and Sioux City, often sharing his cooking skills at the family dinner table. Thanksgiving Dinner is a fond memory, with his perfect Turkey! He also worked as a parts guru at Champion Auto parts in Sioux City, Iowa.Beyond his profession, Richard was known for his passion for Corvettes. An avid owner and enthusiast, he was a proud and regular participant in the Black Hills Corvette Classic from its inaugural year in 1971. He was a founding member of the Sioux Falls Corvette Club and a long time member of the Midwestern Corvette Society in Sioux City. He also was an honorary member of the Revere corvette club. The connections and memories he made through that community were many.Richard is survived by his three children, Jeremy, Jason (Tonya) and Amy (Ben), and his seven amazing grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard R. Koller and Beryl B. Koller.
