Richard Pfanku
December 28, 1939 - July 26, 2024
Obituary
Madison-
Richard S. “Rick” Pfanku, age 84, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, in Madison. He was born on December 28, 1939, in Madison, the son of Stephen and Janice (Stewart) Pfanku. Rick graduated from Madison East High School and went on to attend barbering school. He proudly served in the United States Navy. He then began his career with the State of Wisconsin – Department of Transportation, retiring in 1987. Rick was united in marriage to Linda Knox on June 26, 1992.
A beloved memory of Rick’s was travelling to Africa in his younger years to visit friends that were in the Peace Corps. He and Linda also loved travelling together, especially the 14 years they spent wintering in Bonita Springs, Florida. They shared many happy memories together. Rick enjoyed his many years selling Christmas trees for Tate’s Trees. His other hobbies included photography, trains, cars and appreciating beautiful flowers.
Rick is survived by his wife and the love of his life, Linda; daughters, Aimee (Justin) Bender and Marissa (Chris Reinke) McConnell; two granddaughters, Laurel and Aubrey Bender; sister, Claudia (Dale) Richardson; brother, Fred (Karen Kapitz) Pfanku; and also many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A private family service will be held at Natural Path Sanctuary. Memorials may be made to PBS at PBS | Donate.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.
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Memories
DL
Dave and Deb Lapotka
Other • 9 months ago
A wonderful, kind man with a big beautiful smile left us all too early. Dave worked at the WI DOT for many years with Rick and we bought our Christmas tree from him for years at Tate's Trees. We were able to reconnect with Rick and Linda after life separated us for a time, to spend some fun times together and make more memories. We send our deepest sympathies to his wonderful wife Linda and the family. Rest in peace sweet angel Rick, and keep smiling over all of us. 🥰 With friendship and love. ❤️ Dave & Deb Lapotka
BC
Beth Cannestra
Other • 9 months ago
I worked with Rick at the DOT and I remember him as kind, always smiling and "hip". My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
JB
JoAnna. Cox. Blau
Other • 9 months ago
When Dick and I were in kindergarten we walked to school together. We only lived 2 houses away from each other. The other silly memory I had of him was when we went down to my basement to get something and instead he gave me MY FIRST KISS!