Richard "Rick" R. Kealiher's Obituary
Richard “Rick” R. Kealiher, age 70 went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 27, 2025 with his wife at his side. He was born May 26, 1955 to the late Charles and Beulah (Stedman) Kealiher. Rick graduated from Waupaca High School in 1973. After graduation Rick joined the Marines. He enlisted on April 5, 1974 and was honorable discharges on December 9, 1981. While serving his county he spent time in Okinawa, Japan and was also recognized as a sharp shooter. He was awarded the Certificate of Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Mast 790130, Meritorious Mast 800314, Good Conduct Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Rick spent a number of years working at Churny Cheese in Weyauwega, but had a love for working at the Holiday Convenient Store talking and getting to know the customers. Rick met Vicki the love of his life in 1985. They married on August 28, 1987 and would have celebrated 38 wonderful years of marriage. Richard started working as a landscaper in the King area, where they got to know Francis and Phyllis Werner and their families. They also became wonderful friends through the years. Rick had a love for plants and watching them grow. He would spend hours in the woods with the grandkids, going for long walks or talking and joking around with them. He enjoyed waiting in the woods with Bryce on opening morning for that big buck to come along. He didn’t like Wisconsin winters very much. So, Rick spent a few winters in El Salvador where he made some special friends. He also enjoyed the word of God and the discussion that we had in our bible studies.
Rick is survived by his wife Vicki; sons Corey (Rosalind) Kealiher of Stevens Point; Patrick (Kate) Kealiher of Minnesota ; Matthew (Tammy) Kealiher of Amherst; Andy Bartel of Appleton; Adam Bartel of Iola; grandchildren Abishua, Payton (Nancy), Alivia, Perry, Lamech, Arianna, Aeden, Gaeric, Cecily, Kaetlyn, Taran, Aislyn, Bryce (Lilly), Carter, Bentlee; great grandchildren Amara, Priya, Maya; brother Dan (Bev) Kealiher; special friend Jerry Cady; mother-in-law, Lois Wohlrabe; brother-in-law Kevin Wohlrabe; sisters-in-law Barb (Heath) Hanes, Janet Kaminske; nephew Justin (Ellie) Kealiher; niece Kristyon (David); also many other relatives and friends. Rick was preceded in death by his parents; brothers David and Randy; niece Chanda and her children Taylor and Desirai; father-in-law Melvin Wohlrabe; brothers-in-law Jerry Wohlrabe and Brad Kaminske.
A Memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Monday, August 4, 2025 at Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca. Military Honors will follow the service. Visitation will be held on Monday from 10:00 AM until time of service at Holly’s.
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