Richard John Oehlke, Sr.

Richard John Oehlke, Sr. passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Monday, February 17, 2020 in Brookfield, WI at the age of 88.

Richard will be deeply missed by his five children; daughter, Chris (Ron) Hjerstedt, son Rick (Gail) Oehlke, daughter Jean (Mike) Lindner, daughter Mary (Randy) Lepak and son James (Kimberly) Oehlke; twelve grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Tom Lawler. Richard was preceded in death by his wife Joanne, daughter Dawn Lawler and son John.

Richard was born on November 12, 193i to Hugo and Lottie Oehlke, He is the youngest of eight children. He grew up on 'an 80 acre farm in Kewaunkee, Wisconsin.

At 18 yrs. old, Richard enlisted in the U.S Marines. He proudly served for three years, serving two years in Korea. Upon his return to the States, he and Joanne Huempfner married. They lived in South Carolina until his tour of duty was fulfilled.

In 1954 they settled in the Milwaukee area and Richard began his career with WE Energies, as a lineman. He retired after 40 years of service as a supervisor. Richard is a certified Arborist. He has his own business trimming trees, often with the help of his oldest son.

Richard proudly volunteered on the Brookfield Fire Department. He is the proud father of 7 children, 12 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 21, 2020 from 12:00 noon until the 1:00 pm Funeral Service at the Becker Ritter Funeral Home in Brookfield, WI. Interment will immediately follow at Wisconsin Memorial Park, Brookfield, WI

Memorials may be made in Richard’s name to the Honor Flight (https://www.starsandstripeshonorflight.org/donate/)

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