Richard Thibodeau

A former Superior resident, Richard E. “Rich” Thibodeau, 86, of Hays, died Jan. 19, at Brookdale Assisted Living Center in Hays, Kan.

He was born in Woburn, Mass., to Earnest and Agnes (Gaudet) Thibodeau.

He left a legacy of creativity and inspiration. Although he attended Sanborn Seminary in Kingston, N.H., served in the U.S. Army and studied painting at Northern Arizona University and Highlands University in Las Vegas, N.M., he followed his own path through life.

He was proud to have studied under the artist Alfredo Zalce in Mexico. He ran a successful frame shop in Santa Fe, N. M., which he sold to move to Pilar, N. M. While in Pilar, he painted, ran a youth hostel and created a program of summer workshops. He brought his passion for the arts to Nebraska in the late 90s. He continued to show throughout his life and currently has work on display at the Hays Public Library. His watercolors and his book “Pilar, Pilar” are available at the Hays Arts Center.

Rich is survived by his daughters Nicole, Yvette, and Angelique; his sister, Carol; his grandchildren, Alyssa, Nathan, Alex, Kristen and Halie; his great-grandchildren, Ascher and Shaelie; and his former wives.

He was preceded in death by both his parents; his grandson, Gregory; his brother, Gene; his sisters, JoAnn and Sharon; and his daughter, Shawn Marie.

He was an avid hiker, cross country skier and fly fisherman.

His funeral was held Friday in Pilar, N.M.