Richard Allen Cushing, born April 19, 1977, in Sioux Falls, SD, passed away on April 30, 2025 at the age of 48. He was the beloved son of Duane and JoAnne (Deraas) Cushing.
Growing up in Brookings, Richard attended Brookings High School, where he developed a deep passion for hockey, forging lifelong friendships both on and off the ice. After high school, he pursued higher education at the University of South Dakota, earning his degree in Economics in 2002.
Shortly after graduating, Richard married the love of his life, Robin Kerner from Gregory, SD. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two wonderful sons, Levi and Hunter, whom he adored beyond measure. He was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures — whether listening to music on his record player, spending time outdoors through camping and travel, and cheering on LeBron James as he played for the Lakers.
Alongside his family, Richard had the opportunity and privilege to call many places home, from Georgia, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Washington to Germany and South Korea.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Robin; his beloved sons, Levi and Hunter; his parents, Duane and JoAnne Cushing; his mother-in-law, Charlotte Kerner-Kahler; his sisters, Christine Cushing and Stacie Cushing; his brother-in-law, Kelly Kerner; sister-in-law, Kim Kerner; and his beloved nieces and nephews: Kaylee, Marquise, Tyler, Riley, Keisha, and Emma.
He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Vernon Kerner, and his grandparents.
Though Richard faced difficult battles, he is now at peace. His strength, resilience, and love for his family will be forever cherished.
A funeral service will be held June 12, at 10:30 a.m. at St John’s Lutheran Church in Gregory, South Dakota, with a visitation beginning at 9 a.m. at the same location. Burial will follow in the IOOF Cemetery, Gregory, SD. His family invites all who knew and loved him to join in remembering his life.
