Richard Eugene Micko

          Richard Eugene Micko, born August 29, 1946 in Springfield, Illinois, to Clarence and Virginia Micko, passed away June 29, 2018 in Spring, Texas.  Richard was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother, Steven Micko.  He is survived by his wife, Peggy Kieffer Micko of Spring, Texas; sons, LTC Joshua Micko and wife, Angie Harrison Micko of Alexandria, Virginia, Brandon Micko and wife, Dr. Karen Janish Micko of Tampa, Florida; and his daughter Kristin Micko Albanese of Spring, Texas.  He is also survived by his five grandchildren: Christian Micko, Katelyn Micko, Nevaeh Albanese, Sofia Micko, and Phoenix Micko and a brother Jerry Micko of Glendale, Arizona.

Richard graduated from Lanphier High School in 1964 in Springfield, Illinois and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 19.  He served two tours in Vietnam and was honorably discharged July 1971, after reaching the rank of Sergeant.  He attended El Segundo College and transferred to The University of California Berkley where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry in 1973.  While attending U.C. Berkley, Richard met the love of his life, Peggy Ann Kieffer, and was married December 27, 1971.  Over the next 46 years, the couple moved across the country for numerous jobs, from Illinois to the state of Washington to Florida, Louisiana and finally Texas where Richard retired from Entergy Corporation after 22 years of employment.

Richard upheld strong Christian values, evidenced by the cross pin he dutifully wore on his lapel, and acted as a living witness through his interactions with others. He lived the creed “God, family, country,” putting his family’s needs before his own and serving others before himself. Through his lifestyle, he invariably drew others to him for his sound counsel and fatherly wisdom.  His home was always open, and many considered him a second father.

An embodiment of the phrase “those who can, do; those who can’t, coach,” Richard coached his kids and others through soccer, basketball, baseball and most colorfully, swimming, where he was known to bark like a seal to motivate his swimmers.  Although self-identified an introvert, Richard was considered by most to bring life and energy to all situations and was affectionately thought of as Peggy’s fourth child.  He could bring a smile to any face and often introduced himself as Retardo Eugenio Micko Sicko Suck-A-Picko.

Richard’s family and friends find great comfort in the knowledge that he has ventured to his eternal home but will deeply miss his strong presence, kind words, unwavering sense of humor, and spiritual influence.

Visitation for friends and family will held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Friday July 13, 2018 followed by a Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 a.m., both at St. Marys Catholic Church with burial to follow in St. Marys Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com

          Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Richard’s family.

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