Richard Bretthauer

Brooklyn – Richard E. “Dick” Bretthauer, AKA to his family and friends Billy B, Uncle Blondie and Good Guy, age 82, passed away on Saturday, December 3, 2016 at UW Hospital. He was born on February 12, 1934 in Atkins, Iowa, the son of Louis and Irene (Krog) Bretthauer. He graduated from Ute High School in 1953. Following high school he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1953 – 1957. He then joined the U.S. Air Force from 1957 – 1962. He finished his career in the reserves, serving until his retirement in 1978. Richard was married to Eve Kenseth in September of 1961. He was a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal service. He was a Sunday school teacher and coached youth soccer and basketball. He was an avid boxing and UFC fan. Richard loved his farm in Brooklyn, especially his buffalo and wild horses. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed his coffee friends at the Belleville Town Mart. In 1998, Richard sustained a massive heart attack and lived 16 years beyond doctor’s expectancies due to his extreme German stubbornness and will to live.

He is survived by three children, Clark Bretthauer of McFarland, Brad Bretthauer of Westport and Teresa Bretthauer of Madison; one brother Brett (Shirley) Bretthauer of Cedar Rapids, IA; one sister Phyllis Lee of Long Beach, CA; three grandsons, Rick, Tyler and Jack; brother-in-law Clint Utech of Sioux City, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Frances and former wife and friend Eve Bretthauer.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2016 at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., Madison from 2:00 – 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation, 302 W. Main Street, Suite 100, Avon, CT 06001.