Richard K. "Rich" Bircher, Sr.

Richard K."Rich" Bircher, Sr., 69, of Topeka, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025 surrounded by loved ones at a Topeka hospital. He was born April 28, 1956 in Ellsworth, Kansas, the son of Rolland and Kathryn M. (Preisker) Bircher, Sr.

Rich graduated from Ellsworth High School in 1974 and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Radio/Television/Film from Fort Hays State University in 1979. He was employed as the Morning Director at KTKA Television from 1994 - 1998. From 1998 - 2013, he was the Master Control Operator at WIBW Television. Even after his retirement, he continued to critique newscasts.

Rich married Kathleen M. Hock on March 26, 1982 at the rose garden in Gage Park. She preceded him in death on February 29, 2012.

If you knew one thing about Rich, it was that he was such a devoted dad to his kids. He never missed any of their events, and would be cheering them on no matter what. Rich was a lover of photography, having spent several years working in various jobs that allowed him to pursue his passion. Rich also loved the activity Drum Corps International and would never pass up an opportunity to grow the activity. Rich marched with the Salina silver Sabres back in the 70s, and while he considered himself a dinosaur of the activity, he would always say that this dinosaur has learned to adapt and loved the modern activity so much. He also wouldn't hesitate to tell you who he thought should have won the drum corps title that year in 2015 (crown).

Rich got to check off a bucket list for himself this past summer when his kids and himself took a family trip to Disneyland in California. It was a lifelong dream for him, and we're all so glad he got to experience that once in his life. He was a life-long Kansas City Chiefs fan to the end. His children’s friends became his extended family as well.

Survivors include children, Richard "Rick" Bircher, Jr., Bethany Bircher, his brother, David Bircher, 3 nieces, one nephew, so many friends and his beloved Corgi, Cinnamon.

A Celebration of Rich's Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 19, 2025 at Dove Southeast Chapel, 2843 SE Minnesota Ave. where the family will receive friends one hour prior to service time. Private inurnment will take place in Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date. If you would like to either wear a Disney shirt or something related to music, two of Rich's passions in life, please feel free to.

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