Richard William Thurston, 84, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 3rd, 2016, at Gundersen Lutheran Health System in La Crosse.

He was born in Sparta on March 12th, 1931, to William and Jessie Thurston. He married Betty Ender on July 28th, 1950, in Iowa

Richard was an avid fan of Wisconsin sports. He enjoyed spending time with his family and pets. He also found great joy when building things and working on the farm. Richard was a “child at heart” and always kept the people around him smiling.

He was survived by his 4 children: Larry (Linda), Linda, Allan (Susan), and Kevin (Amy); His sister Shirley, 7 grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.

He preceded in death by his parents, William and Jessie Thurston, his wife Betty, and granddaughter Loralei.

Thank you to Sparta Hospital/Ambulance and Gundersen Lutheran of La Crosse.

Kevin and Amy Thurston held a  Celebration of Life on Sunday, February 7th, at their home in honor of Richard. Immediate family and friends of Richard attended the small gathering.