Beloved West Side Nut Club member passes away

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – West Side Nut Club member Richard Michael Griese, also known as “Dick” or “The Dickster” passes away.

In a Facebook post from the West Side Nut Club , it says Griese passed away on Friday September 27.

Officials say Griese was known as the leader of the Nut Club dancers and cherished the role of Santa during Santa Land as well as hospital visits throughout the holiday season.

Here’s what the organization has to say about Griese:

Dick found immense joy in life and shared that joy with everyone around him. What he loved, he loved with his whole heart—whether it was adventuring with his wife, being a father, attending his grandchildren’s activities, cheering on Purdue, or cooking for scouts. Dick was a man of adventure; he traveled with his wife to all 50 states, embracing each journey with enthusiasm and spreading laughter along the way. He served as the head cook for Boy Scouts of America Troop 399, where he earned the title of Honorary Eagle Scout. His involvement in the West Side Nut Club, Corpus Christi Men’s Club, Friends of Harmonie, AKL Fraternity, and Santa’s Workshop brought light to those he encountered. As Santa Claus, he spread joy to countless children, and as a Eucharistic Minister and National Parks Volunteer, he gave back to his community in ways that will be remembered for years to come.

West Side Nut Club

A celebration of Griese’s life will be held at the Pierre Funeral Home on Tuesday at 6 p.m. for visitation. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 12:30 p.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church.

Officials say friends and family are invited wear silly socks and to share their favorite story of Griese.

The family is requesting donations be made to Boy Scout Troop 399, West Side Nut Club or the Mater Dei Band.

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