Obituary: Richard David Slifka
Author: Family Of Richard David Slifka
Article Published: 09/11/2026 Volume: 5 Edition: 10Family Of Richard David Slifka
Richard David Slifka
In Loving Memory of Richard David Slifka
July 16, 1944 - January 7, 2026
Richard was born the youngest sibling of two to Mary and Frank Slifka in Toston, Montana. He attended school from kindergarten through eighth grade at the Old Toston School House.
He graduated from Broadwater High School at the age of 16. After spending a few years selling railroad ties to local farmers—an endeavor that brought him great earnings for a teenager—he joined the Montana National Guard. Following an honorable discharge and time spent traveling across the country, Richard settled in Bakersfield, California, after meeting his first wife. Together, they had two beautiful daughters, Lisa and Brande.
In 1981, Richard married his soulmate, Donna, who brought her own beautiful daughter April into the family. Together, they created a loving blended family and owned the Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge for 46 years. Rich cherished being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His second passion was fishing, and he participated in bass tournaments for many years. He also found great joy in camping at Lake Havasu with dear friends. Toston, Montana, remained a second home to Rich and Donna, where they spent their summers with family and friends.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Frank Slifka, and his nephew, Douglas Slifka. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Donna; his daughters, Lisa Slifka-Knight (Ryan), Brande Slifka-Killion (Sean), April Webb-Randle. His granddaughters, Jessica (Austin), Kaylynn, and Kryslynn; his grandsons, Dustin, Derek (Shayne), David, and Blake (Nicole); his great-grandchildren, Avery Grace, Jarrett, Avery Lynn, Connor, Addison, Echo, and Shadow.
He is also survived by his brother, Franklin Slifka, and his wife, Judy; his nieces and nephews, Joanne (Jeffrey), Mark (Dawn), Monti (Allen), and their families; as well as his beloved cousins and all his cherished friends in Bakersfield and Montana, especially his “five” friends!
In 1978, he survived a near-death experience, defying the odds and went on to enjoy 48 more wonderful years. True to his fighting spirit, he bravely fought through his final three days, surrounded by the love of his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life was held on February 21, 2026, at Richard and Donna’s home in Bakersfield, California.
Following a graveside memorial service at Holy Cross Cemetery in Townsend, Richard’s life was celebrated by a gathering of his cherished Montana friends and his family at Rich and Donna’s home in Toston.
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