Joseph Richards

Joseph “Joe” William Richards, 74, passed away unexpectedly on October 14th at his home.

Joe was born September 14th, 1948, in Wausau, WI to George and Myrtle (Glasel) Richards. Joe attended Holy Name Grade School and graduated from Newman High in 1965. In high school Joe especially enjoyed his experiences in the Newman Band and Science Club. Joe went on to UW Marathon County Extension Center for two years and graduated from UW Madison in 1969 with a BS Degree in Science and Teaching. He taught computer science and science in the New Berlin East High School for 35 years, serving terms as department chair and negotiating member. Joe lived in Waukesha during that time.

In 2004 Joe retired back to Wausau. He was an active member of Holy Name Parish where he volunteered for various parish projects. Joe was active every day and was an avid deer hunter, enthusiastic and successful gardener, creative and outstanding carpenter, first class lumberjack who not only cut his own logs, but also made lumber on his sawmill, planed it, and used it in his carpentry projects. Joe also mastered maple syrup production and enjoyed sharing his knowledge. He was an avid hiker and was especially fond of hiking and visiting friends in Hawaii. Joe loved following the Packers, especially when they won! Joe was present for neighborhood and family gatherings and added cheer to every occasion. He inspired all of us to continue in the “outdoor life” and was loved by all. He will be greatly missed.

Survivors include two sisters, Virginia (Richards) DeLonay Lambrecht of Wausau, Patricia (Richards) Leonard of Stewartville, MN; one brother, George and Geri Richards of Gilmer, TX; numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and older sister, Mary Lee (Richards) Utecht.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 22nd at Holy Name Parish, 1104 S 9th Avenue, Wausau. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am until the time of Mass at the church. Burial will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Joe’s name can be made to Holy Name Parish.