Richard Bieler

Richard R. Bieler, beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 28, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Catasauqua, to the late Claude and Helen (Ritter) Bieler, Richard lived a simple life filled with love and laughter, enjoying all that each day offered. Rich was always smiling and enthusiastically shared conversations with anyone and everyone. He was known as Richard, Rich, Richie, Goodrich, Dad, PopPop, and Pappy by those who loved him.

A 1949 graduate of East Greenville High School where he was a multi-sport athlete, Richard served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. After his service, he began a career as a postal worker at the East Greenville Post Office, where he enjoyed 48 years of rural route mail delivery and was dedicated to providing service and good cheer to his community before retiring in 1998. After retirement, he worked part-time at Macoby Run Golf Course for several years.

Rich was a lifelong member of New Goshenhoppen United Church of Christ, serving on the consistory for many years. His commitment to his faith and community was a cornerstone of his life. Rich was a Rawdsman of Grundsow Lodge #7 and served as Gelthaver (treasurer) for many years. He embraced Pennsylvania Dutch traditions and loved sharing the language with Lodge members and family. Every family holiday dinner included grace said in English, followed by Rich providing a prayer in Pennsylvania Dutch. He was also a member of Masonic Lodge #595 in Red Hill and the American Legion Post #184 in Palm.

Richie enjoyed being outdoors and was routinely found on his tractor working around the farm, often with a goat trailing behind. He was an avid skier until well into his 80s and traveled the country and the world with the Ptarmigan Ski Club looking for new skiing adventures with friends. He also had a love for bowling, participating in both the East Greenville Firehouse and the Perkiomen Post 184 Legion Leagues, where he formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife Marlene with whom he shared 61 years together. In addition, he is survived by his two sons Craig Richard (Lisa) and Christopher Michael (Shannan) and four granddaughters, Kathryn, Rachel, Lindsay, and Taylor Bieler, who enjoyed every moment spent with him. He is predeceased by his sister Fern Fried.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at New Goshenhoppen UCC, 1070 Church Road, East Greenville, PA with a burial following in the church cemetery. There will be a viewing Wednesday evening, March 5, from 6-7:30 PM at Mann-Slonaker Funeral Home, 222 Washington Street, East Greenville, PA and the next morning at the church from 10 to 10:45 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to New Goshenhoppen UCC.