Richard Franklin Burkybile, age 90, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, passed away on April 21, 2026.

Richard was born on June 9, 1935, in Avoca, Iowa, to Frank and Helena Burkybile. He was a simple, hardworking man who dedicated his life to his family, his work, and the things he loved most.

On November 7, 1956, he married the love of his life, Janet Brugenhemke, in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Together, they shared nearly 70 years of marriage and built a life centered on love and family, raising three daughters and creating many cherished memories that will be carried on for generations.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army as Military Police and with the Redstone Missile program from 1958 to 1960 and later continued his service in the Army Reserve.

Richard spent 40 years working for the Council Bluffs Water Works. After retirement, he enjoyed working another 15 years part time as the groundskeeper at Highlands Golf Course in Bella Vista, Arkansas.

He found joy in golfing, watching NASCAR, John Wayne westerns, working on race cars, and spending time with his beloved 1953 Ford truck.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helena Burkybile; daughter, Kim Grosvenor; four brothers, Ralph, Dale, Rodney, and Marvin; and three sisters, Wilda Lakla, Ruth Haywood, and Norma Moore.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Janet Burkybile; daughters, Kris Wiser (Jerry) of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Kathy Van Poucke (Glenn) of Siloam Springs, Arkansas; seven grandchildren, Chad (Jaimi) Miller, Trent (Tami) Miller, Stephanie McCoid, Jake McCoid, Nicole Sigle, Kyle Baker, and Mason Grosvenor; nine great-grandchildren, Brooke Miller, Geurin Miller, Rylie Robinson, Keegan McCoid, Elizabeth McCoid, Nile Miller, Liam Sigle, Noah Baker and Delilah Baker; one sister, Shirley Morvant.

Richard will be remembered for his quiet nature, simple ways, steady presence, and the love he had for his family.

No public services will be held. A private family ceremony will take place at the Fayetteville National Cemetery at a later date.