Richard Lerwick

In memory of my grandfather, I recall his home, nestled beside the Wisconsin lake, straight across from the state capitol. There he passed onto me some of the most invaluable lessons of life. Many summers were spent, learning of patience through fishing. Casting countless lines and the excitement of catches, always kindly released back to their watery home. He taught me how to navigate the waters of the lake on his boat. Each trip was a lesson wrapped in an adventure, learning to read the water's subtle signs to understanding the importance of safety, his teachings went beyond just steering the boat. Grandpa showed me how a boat, much like life, requires balance and understanding to keep it on course. An Independence day tradition was the stuff of picture postcards. Watching fireworks over the capitol dome from the comfort of his patio. And who could forget those warm afternoons, filled with the aroma of Granny's homemade oatmeal cookies. Made even more special with a cold glass of root beer. It was in these moments that he reminded me to enjoy life's simple pleasures. His memory will forever resonate in the waves of the Wisconsin lake and the taste of root beer on a warm summer day.

I am so sorry to hear of Dicks passing. I am your mom's great niece Lee-Anndra. Bud and Dorothy's (Sue's oldest sister) granddaughter. My mother-in-law will be just a few doors down from where your mom is now. I will make sure to stop in a visit it her as often as possible. I am thinking of all of you during this difficult time. Lee-Anndra

I'm so saddened to hear that Uncle Dick passed away. He was the kindness man I knew. He was always helpful, non judgemental , and a warm person. I know he truly loved Aunt Sue. They were never separate. He always put her needs in front of his own. I will always admire and love him. My heart is breaking.

I considered it a privilege to have known him and to call him my friend. We shared some holidays together a Thanksgiving an Easter and then several other just meals at different times. I will remember how he liked chipped beef on toast as much as I did and how Sue and him were the greatest couple. Years of living next to him have left me with many great memories he will be missed dearly. Sue is a dream another wonderful friend and we send her our love.

My sympathies to all of Uncle Dick's family. He was always so kind to me and my family. My father, Tom, was Sue's older brother. We lived in New Mexico and had alot of fun when they visited us or we visited them in Iowa. I had a nice phone conversation with them a couple years ago and they were still so nice and funny! My love to Aunt Sue, I'm sure this will be difficult for her. Nancy Pisarik