Richard “Rich” Joseph Beale, age 88, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Agrace HospiceCare, Fitchburg, WI. He was born on November 23, 1936, to Marlin and Fern (Ward) Beale in Madison. Rich married Elizabeth “Betty” Poppa on September 26, 1959, at St. James Catholic Church in Madison, WI.

Rich proudly served two years for the United State Army and was stationed in Japan. He worked for the University of Wisconsin Police Department as a Police Officer for over 26 years. Then went onto work at Madison Area Technical School in the Police Science Program for over 20 years.

Spending time with his family was very important to Rich. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, and he loved dancing, even winning a Gitter Bug contest one time.

Rich is survived by his wife of 65 years, Betty; children, William Beale, Robert (Laura) Beale, Barbara (Leslie) Lessmiller, Bobette Weiss; 20 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; close friends, Todd Allen, Kim Cavolt-Zinkel; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; children, Elizabeth(Vaughn) Haley, Brian Beale; sibling, Yvonne “Bonnie” and very close cousin, who he considered a brother, Donald Beale.

The family would like to thank Agrace, and St Mary’s Hospital 8W for the wonderful care. We would also like to mention that because of his wife, and daughter Bobette, and their wonderful loving care, he was able to remain at home until the very end.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N. Sherman Ave, Madison, WI. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service. Burial and Military Honors will be held at Highland Memory Gardens. A Celebration of Rich’s Life will also be held after the burial. More details will be given at the visitation or feel free to contact the family.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N Sherman Ave

608-249-8257

Richard Beale

November 23, 1936 - January 18, 2025

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