John R. “Richie” Keyser, Jr. 49, formerly of Hanover, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at the Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, PA. He was born on October 11, 1965, in Baltimore, MD.
Richie was a 1983 graduate of Spring Grove Senior High School. He was of the Lutheran faith. He attended Penn State, studying in Food Science. He was a member of the Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity. He was self-employed. He owned and operated the novity store, Artifax, in State College.
Richie was a creative person. He loved to make handmade items to sell in his store. He was known for his woodworking items and his tie-dye creations. He was an importer of silver jewelry and clothing. He enjoyed all sports but especially Rugby, Soccer, and Penn State football.
Richie loved to travel, especially to Thailand. He and his companion traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad. He was a friend to all and will be missed greatly by those that knew him.
Richie is survived by his mother and step father, Andrea and Garland “Jay” Rhyne of Hanover, his father, J Richard Keyser, Sr. and his wife, Barbara, of Cordova, MD, his companion of 30 years, Kim J. Reigle of State College, and Kim’s mother, Helen A. Reigle of Jim Thorpe, PA.
Also surviving Richie is his sister, Kristen E. Keyser, of Hanover, step-sister, Deborah Williams of Delaware, Kim’s sisters; Barbara A. Gabriela and her husband, Fred, of Morrisville, PA and Melissa J. Leon and her husband, Gary, of Croydon, PA and their three daughters, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Richie was especially close to his nephew, Eric Hufnagle of Hanover.
As per Richie’s request, a celebration of his life will be held at a later time in his hometown of Hanover, PA. Memorial contributions can be made to the Special Olypics of Pennsylvania, www.specialolympicspa.org or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of State College, 526 Westerly Parkway, State College, PA 16801.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, 106 W. Sycamore St. Snow Shoe. An online guest book can be signed or condolences to the family available at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.