Richard John Stocker

Richard John Stocker, age 80, of Hastings, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Richard was born on July 1, 1944, in San Francisco, CA, to Richard and Alma (Meier) Stocker. Although born in California, he spent most of his youth in St. Paul Park, MN and graduated from Park High School in 1962.

Richard had a spirit for adventure from a young age. After his junior and senior years of high school, he rode his motorcycle out to Big Timber, Montana, to work on a ranch, creating unforgettable stories and memories. His eyes would light up with joy when he spoke about getting the ol’ Johnny Popper stuck in the mud.

Following high school, Richard enlisted in the U.S. Navy and spent 4 years stationed in Puerto Rico and Jacksonville, Florida. He took great pride in his military service and hung a flag each day on his front porch.

In 1968, Richard married the love of his life, Jeanette Nelson. They settled in Hastings in 1970 and their union blessed them with two children, Johnny and Jeanne. During their 52 years of marriage, they enjoyed bike rides together, family camping trips and many games of 500 with friends. Richard loved to bowl and spent many evenings perfecting his game during men’s leagues and mixed doubles with Jeanette.

He was a talented artist who sketched and painted hundreds of birds, creating charming, handcrafted pieces. He also had a passion for photography, developing his prints in a darkroom—many of which went on to earn awards in competitions. He loved to read and could often be found writing tales of his youth that will be treasured for generations to come.

Richard was a dedicated employee of the refinery in St. Paul Park, where he worked nearly 30 years as a welder before retirement. This included playing many rounds of cribbage in the break room, commonly called the "shark pit", where he formed friendships with many of his coworkers that endured for the rest of his life.

After his retirement in 2001, he spent many days gardening, meticulously tending to his yard, which was an explosion of color every spring and summer. Richard took great pride in every bloom, not just for his own enjoyment, but for the happiness it brought to people that passed by. Neighbors, friends, and passersby would often stop to admire the beauty, and he cherished their smiles, conversations, and compliments. For Richard, gardening wasn’t just a hobby—it was a way to share joy, connect with others, and brighten the world around him, one flower at a time.

His heart for service led him to volunteer extensively at the Resurrection United Methodist Church of Hastings where he spent many Sundays ushering and washing dishes. He thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship and would often be the last person to exit the sanctuary. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels and created dozens of beaded angels for hospice care. Richard was also a proud member of the American Legion for over 50 years.

Every Tuesday and Saturday, Richard would visit the Hastings Farmers Market. He would spend the entire morning socializing with each vendor and filling up his bag with goodies. He was known as a generous buyer who often bought more than he could use himself, happily sharing the excess with friends and family. He treasured his time with family, playfully teasing his grandchildren and sharing joyful moments.

Richard will be remembered for his stubborn yet gentle demeanor, his deeply rooted integrity, playful humor, and unwavering love for his family. He carried a generous spirit and a quiet strength, always ready with a kind word or helping hand. “Have you ever had the feeling that you are all alone and in total darkness? Then you turn, and at your side stands a good friend holding a lit candle.” Richard was that steady light for so many—whether as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, coworker, or friend. His warmth, sincerity, and belief that we are all here to help one another will leave a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Johnny Stocker and Jeanne (Jason) Theis; grandchildren, Kayla and Kyle Theis; sister-in-law, Barb Baker; one niece, two nephews, and many other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Alma Stocker; wife, Jeanette Stocker; and sister, Atalie Lehrke.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Lakeside Cemetery in Hastings.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Resurrection United Methodist Church, Hastings with a visitation one hour prior to the service.