Richard Meuchel

Richard (Dick) Meuchel, age 88, passed peacefully on December 27, 2025, at Baptist Health & Rehab in Bismarck, ND. Richard was born in Saskatchewan Canada in 1937 the second of three children to Nicademus (Nick) and Gloria Meuchel. Early life for Richard was spent on the farm first in Canada and then near Ray, ND where the family moved during his elementary school years. Life on the farm developed a strong work ethic which he carried with him throughout his lifetime.

After high school Richard aspired to be a rancher but had to sell his cattle when he was drafted into the army. He was stationed in various locations and was sent overseas to Germany and spent many months there before being honorably discharged. Upon his return, he started working in the oil field for a company that specialized in tank construction and maintenance where he was employed for many years.

In 1966 Richard was united in marriage to Lila Meyer and they spent 59 years as husband and wife and demonstrated a strong love for each other and their family. The majority of this time was spent in Williston, ND where they raised their children Arlen and Nicole. They were very active and never lost their strong work ethic, every year planting a garden that was so plentiful that harvest time was busy with canning, freezing, and dropping off vegetables to friends and neighbors. Despite the hard work, Richard enjoyed working with the land. Another lifelong passion of Richard’s was playing the guitar. He was self-taught and very talented. He played in a variety of bands throughout the years and free time at home would often find him with a guitar in hand.

A move to Bismarck, ND occurred in 2011 after both were retired so they could be near family and enjoy time with grandkids. They made many friends with neighbors and fellow YMCA members by extending their time together to include a coffee group. Richard and Lila were big supporters of their grandkids for their concerts, sporting events, and all holidays and spent a lot of time on the road between Bismarck and Fargo.

Surviving Richard is wife Lila, children Arlen Meuchel (Tresa) of Fargo, Nicole Anderson (Adam) of Bismarck. Grandchildren Teya and Arren Meuchel, and Kinsley and Hayden Anderson. Brother Robert Meuchel, sister Joyce Eide (Bob) and various nieces, nephews, and old friends.

Preceding Richard in death are his parents Nick and Gloria, daughter Michelle, mother and father-in-law Lawrence and Josephine Meyer, brother-in-law Roy Meyer, and sister-in-law Marie Marske.

Memorial Services are pending, with arrangements being made with Weigel Funeral Home. Burial will be at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery.