Obituary of Richard Verus Sempler

Richard Verus Sempler Age 93, of Horseheads, passed away peacefully at the home of Polly Griswold, his loving companion and the love of his life, on Saturday, October 9, 2021 surrounded by his family. Richard was born December 4, 1927 in Elmira, NY, the son of the late Verus and Clara (Fritz) Sempler. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Vance. Richard is survived by his loving brothers Bob (Lisa) & Carl (Joan) Sempler; his sons, Ronald (Diane), Jerry (Penny), and Daniel (Kathe) Sempler; daughters Karen (William) White and Nancy (Rick) Berry; his grandchildren Sarah, Ryhan, Tiffani, Nichole, Dustin, Cory, Melissa, and Michael; several nieces & nephews; along with his special friend and ‘adopted daughter’ Kathleen Cicora. After graduation, Richard enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he spent time aboard a repair ship in the Mediterranean. Richard was a veteran of the Korean Conflict. In 1958 he open Sempler’s Bait & Tackle; later becoming the owner and operator of Sempler’s Honda in Pine Valley, NY. Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved riding his four-wheeler, as well as lending a hand to his sons, family, or anyone who would ask him. He was a devoted brother, father, friend, and gave the best hugs. Richard was a member of the Elmira Heights Historical Society, a Freemason, and a member of the Big Flats American Legion Post 1612 as well as Elmira Heights American Legion Post 154. Richard’s life will be celebrated on Thursday, October 14th, 2021 at 2pm with a graveside memorial service with military honors in Maple Grove Cemetery in Horseheads, NY.