Richard L. Oyer, Sr.

Richard L. “Dick” Oyer, Sr.

HORNELL – Richard L. “Dick” Oyer, Sr., 84, died of natural causes on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at his home.

Born in Hornell on August 12, 1940, he was the son of the late Ellsworth and Rheda (Sell) Oyer. On June 19th, 1965, he was married at St. Ann’s Church in Hornell to Irene Recktenwald Oyer, who predeceased him on October 4, 2015 after 50 years of marriage. Besides his parents and wife, he was also predeceased by his two brothers, Raymond Oyer and James Oyer.

A lifelong resident of Hornell, Dick was a graduate of Hornell High School, class of 1959.

Before retiring, he was employed for 37 years as a Pavement Marking Supervisor for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). After his retirement, he was employed for a brief period as a Courier for the former Steuben Trust Company in Hornell. In his younger years, he was employed part-time for the former Max Wilkins Service Station in Hornell.

Dick was a 60+ year member and past Governor of the Hornell Moose Lodge No. 210. He was also a member of the Hornell Elks Lodge No. 364 and the Hornell Masonic Lodge.

An avid hunter, he loved spending time at his hunting camp, “Windy Hill.” He loved animals, which was evident by all of the stray cats and other animals he took care of. He loved to camp, especially in Arendtsville, PA where his mother’s family originated. He also loved attending his grandchildren’s school functions and sporting events. Dick was a routine-orientated guy. After his morning coffee and later with his sweets and bowl of ice cream, he was like clockwork! He was often seen around town at the same time, same place every day. Dick is irreplaceable and will be truly missed!

He is lovingly survived by his two sons, Rick (Lisa) Oyer of Loon Lake and Chris (Elena) Oyer of Victor, NY; four grandsons, Matthew, Nicholas, Nathan and Weston Oyer; one brother, Rev. Robert (Irena) Oyer of Holley, NY; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calling hours are 6-8 p.m. on Thursday (Sept. 12, 2024) at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main Street, Hornell, where a funeral service will take place at 10 a.m.  Friday (Sept. 13, 2024) with his brother, Rev. Robert Oyer officiating. Private interment will be in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Hornell.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to the Hornell Moose Lodge Children’s Christmas Fund, 66 Seneca St., Hornell or to the Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Dick’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Dick are welcome below in the comment section or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.