Richard W. Lenz
August 28, 1942 -
May 29, 2015
US Veteran
Richard Walter “Rich” Lenz, age 72 of Kenosha, died on Friday, May 29, 2015 at Froedtert Memorial Hospital after battling a long illness.
Born in Kenosha on August 28, 1942, he was the son of the late Walter and Irene (Tanner) Lenz. He attended local schools and was a 1960 graduate of Kenosha High School. Rich received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
He served our country honorably in the U.S. Army attaining the rank of Sergeant. Rich continued his military service in the Air Force until his retirement in 2002 as a Master Sergeant. He proudly received both a Military Achievement Award and the Korean Defense Service Medal.
On August 30, 1969 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, he was united in marriage to Barbara Lee Zastrow. A devoted husband, they were blessed with 45 years of marriage.
Rich was employed as a college guidance counselor with Gateway Technical College for 39 years. He retired in 2012.
Rich was known as a kind, gentle and compassionate man. He gave his time and talent to the Kenosha Community. Rich was on the Kenosha Aging and Disability Resource Center Board, the Kenosha Achievement Center Board and served a term on the Governor’s Education Task Force.
He selflessly devoted himself to his family and treasured the special time he spent with his daughter, Denise who has special needs. Rich was a positive role model, mentor and inspiration to many especially his niece and nephew, Jill Hall and Daniel Marinelli.
Rich enjoyed playing recreational basketball and softball. He was an avid reader and a history buff.
He will always be remembered by his loving wife of 45 years, Barbara, his three children, Denise, Michael and Mark, and his grandson, Miles.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mary Sue Bedore.
Service Info
A time of sharing with full military honors will be held on Friday, June 5, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at Piasecki-Althaus Funeral Home, 3720 39th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53144
Posted by:
John WellsDear Barb, I am sad today as I truly feel the loss of Rich. He was an inspiration for me during my first years in college and truly was a 'guiding' light for me and friend down through the years. I last met him when I was home for my 45th reunion and it was also the first I heard of his illness. I plan to be back in town for our 50th high school reunion and had looked forward to meeting Rich again. May your family always hold Rich deep in your hearts as he was a very special person and will be missed by so many. Hugs to your whole family, Barb and please remain strong as that is how Rich would only want it. Gosh, I truly miss him! Fondest regards, John Wells (Yokohama, Japan)
Posted by:
Kath & Fred FroeberDear Barb and Family. Just heard of your loss of Richard. Fred and I new Rich at the 440th in Milwaukee, WI, when we both were in the Air Force Reserves at 34th APS. I use to visit the Education Office quite a bit. He helped me many times with the Community College of the Air Force and how to proceed. Fred said you use to live over here in our neighborhood...He was a good man and we will miss him. Prayers for you and your family. He won't be forgotten. Kathy and Fred Froeber
Posted by:
John MilisauskasMy condolences to Rich's family. Rich and I used to play a lot of basketball together as well as work on educational and employment projects through our work partnership at Job Service, GTC and the Kenosha County Job Center. As written, he was a kind and gentle man.
Posted by:
Irene ReidSorry for your loss, our hearts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. Irene and Jim Reid
Posted by:
Jane and Steve RocqueDear Barb and Family, we are so sorry to hear about Rich's passing. He was a great friend and supporter for so many at Gateway Technical College. It was a pleasure to know and work with him. You have our deepest sympathy and will remain in our prayers. Sincerely, Jane and Steve Rocque - Racine, WI
Posted by:
Paula SalernoBarbara sorry for your loss .Will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by:
Donna WhiteDear Barb and family...... So very sorry to read of your beloved husband's passing. I pray for our Lord's strength to get you through this difficult time. Sending much love and smooches..... Donna Sevey White......????
