Richard Edmund Gosselin was born on August 4, 1945, and lived a life full of laughter, adventure, and love. A man with strong lungs and an even stronger gift for conversation, he never met a stranger—only new friends. On August 18, 2025, Richard had his last conversation at the Veteran’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado, surrounded by his three daughters and his beloved granddaughter, MacKenhzee. At heaven’s gates, he was welcomed by his father, Leo, and his mother, Stella.
On July 2, 1966, Richard married his constant and greatest love, Kathleen Elizabeth Bickum. This past summer they celebrated 59 years of marriage, a partnership marked by devotion, resilience, and joy. Together they built a life where love always triumphed, even in the face of adversity.
Richard proudly served in the U.S. Navy as an optical repairman, working on telescopes that allowed him to travel the world. He returned home with stories, souvenirs, and of course, the latest stereo system. His love of photography blossomed during this time, leaving behind a collection of slides that became the backdrop of many family nights—though not all of them were “family friendly,” as one surprise slide-show once revealed.
After the service, Richard built a career as a machinist at Hamilton Sunstrand. It was then he returned to one of his greatest passions: cycling. Whether on the road or the mountains, Richard was all about the ride. He was an excellent cyclist—though his adventures sometimes landed him in the emergency room, including one memorable crash involving a broken-down van. Richard believed in living fully, and the stories of his life are proof: from surviving a motorcycle accident during his service to accidentally trying to order food through a McDonald’s trash can lid, he left behind countless tales of laughter and adventure.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen; his children, Kim Riedmiller (Ann), Keith Gosselin, Kerri Reddick (Michael), and Katie Smith (Jason); and his grandchildren, MacKenhzee Roop (Kyle), Kaleb Adler, Keely Schafer, Kolin Smith, Keoni Smith, and Kameha Smith. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren Khloe, Myranda, Kash, and Kennedy. Richard also leaves behind his sister, Lucille Vandegrift, and her children, Melissa and Jason.
Richard was a man who lived for the journey, not the destination. His humor, love, and stories will be treasured by all who knew him. Thank you, Dad, for the memories and laughter—you will carry us until we meet again.
Military Service for Dad
September 25th at 3pm
2830 Riverside Pkwy
Grand Junction, CO 81501
United States
Please share with anyone you feel would like to attend. ❤️🤍💙
2830 Riverside Pkwy
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