Richard Arlen Andrew Vierkandt was born November 11, 1957, in St. Paul, Minnesota, the son of Richard Sr. and Helen (Emerfoll) Vierkandt. He grew up and graduated from High School in St. Paul. He lived and worked in St. Paul and Benson. Among the things he enjoyed were fishing, woodworking, beading, golfing, making dream catchers, and helping others. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren. Richard is survived by his children: Bill and Joe of Amery, WI, Ashley VanWinkle of Benson and Jesse Van Winkle of White Bear Lake ; four grandchildren; his mother, Helen Mattick of St. Paul; siblings: Paula, Pammy, Patty, and Ron; significant other, Shirley VanWinkle of Benson; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Preceding him in death were his father Richard and his step-dad, Norm Mattick.