Richard E. Kibler

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard E. “Dick” Kibler, of North Java. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, Dick passed away peacefully at home on March 1, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on May 24, 1953, in Buffalo, Dick was a lifetime resident of Perry Road and a pillar of the local farming community. He grew up working on the family dairy farm alongside his late father, Cornelius, and his brothers, and he took it over as his own as an adult. He owned and operated the farm with the help of his own children for decades, eventually passing it down to his eldest son, Andy, and continuing the family legacy.

Dick is often remembered as the life of the party; he was quick with a joke and loved socializing, playing cards at his cabin among friends and family and giving his grandson James rides around the farm on the Gator. The Kibler Dairy Farm milkhouse was often a community gathering place and “unofficial town hall,” where anyone who stopped in was welcome to shoot the breeze and enjoy a cold drink or two (or three). He also was a part of Kibler Maple and enjoyed helping run the sugar shanty and catching up with anyone who stopped in for a visit.

Dick leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that will continue through his surviving family: his devoted wife, Linda A. Myers Kibler, whom he married on June 6, 1980; his loving children, Andy Kibler of North Java, Nick Kibler of North Java and Katie (Tony) Parker of Castile; and his treasured grandchildren, James, Sofia and Weston Parker. Richard is also survived by his siblings, Mike (Ann) Kibler of Attica, Bill (Sylvia) Kibler of Florida, Pat (Tammy) Kibler of California, Tom (Donna) Kibler of Varysburg, Tim (David) Kibler of Rochester and Sue (Doug) Brown of North Java, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to his father, Dick was preceded in death by his mother, Jacqueline Faller Kibler, and his siblings, John (Marilyn) Kibler and Marilee Kibler.

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at a later date at the North Java Fire Department, located at 4274 Route 98, North Java, NY 14113, where stories and memories of his extraordinary life will be shared.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dick’s memory to the North Java Fire Department, P.O. Box 137, North Java, NY 14113, or Charlotte House, P.O. Box 123, North Java, NY 14113, to show appreciation for the local organizations he held dear.

Dick will be missed deeply but remembered fondly by all who knew him. May his spirit live on in the hearts of those who loved him.