Richard W. Sleeper

Richard W. Sleeper, 77, passed away suddenly on April 26, 2023. He was predeceased by his parents Walter and Emily Sleeper; brotherin-law Michael Williamson; In-Laws George and Irma Rice, and brother-in-law Gary Rice. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Linda (Rice) Sleeper; children Amy (Michael) TerBoss, Rick (Sue Ellen) Sleeper; cherished grandchildren Matt and Jake TerBoss, Josh (Vanessa) TerBoss, Madison (Jordan) Smith; great grandson Eli Smith; siblings Judy Williamson, Ed (Dee) Sleeper, Roy (Linda) Sleeper; special nieces, nephews and countless loyal friends that he considered family.

Richard, better known as Dick, graduated from Broome Technical Community College with a degree in Civil Engineering. He went on to join the United States Navy, where he served his country proudly, and earned his Blue Nose. He worked for the NYS DOT for 36 years as an Engineer in Charge, earning the NYS Engineer of the Year Award for Region 9 in 1997. It is merely impossible to leave Broome County without crossing a bridge that he built.

He loved the outdoors, being an avid hunter and golfer. He was one of the founders of the Kirkwood Sportsmen’s Club, as well as a Kirkwood Volunteer Firefighter for 50 years. He was very proud to be a part of the Wyoming boys, a close knit group of friends who went hunting out west annually for 18 years. He loved cooking, gardening, and dancing, and was often the life of the party, leading the electric slide, even if it was solo.

He loved life and his family and friends unconditionally. He was always there for anyone in need without hesitation, a selfless caring man. He loved spending time with his family and he loved watching his grandsons’ many sporting events. To say he was an incredible father, spouse, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend would be an understatement. He was truly loved by all he touched, and will be sorely missed. For those who knew him well, this will be the last one, and he really means it this time.

Visitation will be held on Friday May 5, 2023 from 4-7pm at the THOMAS J. SHEA FUNERAL HOME, INC., 137 Robinson St. Binghamton. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday at 11am with Military Honors at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial, please send donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard W. Sleeper, please visit our floral store.