In 1978, Richard landed the greatest catch of his life when Susan Louis Brainerd agreed to marry him on October 21. Together they built a home in Southwest Lincoln, raising their children and creating a lifetime of memories. Richard spent his career with Burlington Northern (later BNSF), where he formed a tight‑knit crew who understood the rhythm of his days as well as any fishing partner.
A true outdoorsman, Richard knew every bend of the river and every quiet cove worth exploring. He co‑founded the Megabucks tournament at Harlan County reservoir, becoming a familiar face to anglers who looked forward to his raffles—always punctuated with his signature addition of “and a hat!” When he wasn’t on the water or in a deer stand, he could be found in the driveway tuning up trailers, swapping stories, or teaching young anglers the basics of a good cast.
Richard also spent years helping Santa bring joy to families, most memorably through the BNSF Santa Train. And whether cheering for the Colorado Buffaloes or the Denver Broncos, he supported his teams with the same loyalty he brought to every part of his life.
Richard is reunited with his beloved wife, Susan, his brother Rodney Lee Lehn, and his brothers‑in‑law Jerry Reed, Jack Miller and Tim Shackle. He leaves his stories, lessons, and love of the outdoors to his children, Jill (Justin) Haas and Josh (Autumn) Lehn; his six treasured grandchildren, Remington, Brenden, Stella, Tatumn, Garren, and Scarlett; his siblings Rose Reed, Barbara Miller, Roderick Lehn; and his half‑sister Carol‑lee Shackle. He is also survived by his sisters‑in‑law Jackie and Cindy, who cared for him deeply.
In Richard’s honor, take someone fishing, share a story on the shoreline, and remember that the best days are often the simple ones spent outdoors.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday evening from 6–8:30 p.m. at Spikes Bar and Grille, 2300 Judson St., Lincoln, NE 68521, in place of a traditional viewing.
Richard’s service will be held January 23 at 10:00 AM at Roper and Son’s Funeral Home, 4300 O St., Lincoln, NE.
Burial will follow at Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Rd., Omaha, NE, at 2:30 PM.
Transportation to Omaha will be provided but is limited please RSVP with the family.
Memorials to the family for a bench in Richard’s honor at Conestoga Lake.