Richard Edward Hotchkiss

Richard E. Hotchkiss, 96, Mosinee, died on May 2, 2024, at North Central Health Care, surrounded by his family.

He was born on Sept. 18, 1927, in Milwaukee, WI, son of the late Irving and Rose (Koscinski) Hotchkiss.  He married Maxine Drake, on May 1, 1948, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee, she preceded him in death on March 2, 2003.

In Richard’s early years he worked at B&M machine shop as a machinist in Milwaukee. There he made one of the first parts for the Space Shuttle. Richard was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving as a P.F.C. stationed in Germany in 1946-1947.  In the early 70’s they relocated to central Wisconsin. Richard was a very loving family man. Visiting his children was a normal occurrence. He often lended a helping hand and great wisdom. In younger years when time allowed, he enjoyed bass fishing, hunting, polka dancing, and working on his cabin in Townsend WI with family and friends. After retirement from Greenheck Fan he enjoyed driving tractor for Krautkramer Ginseng. He was able to spend 14 years living with his companion Mary Reed on the Eau Pleine Flowage, making new dear friends. Due to health reasons, for the last 11 months Richard lived with his son Allen and daughter-in-law Linda in Mosinee. He will be missed, and memories cherished.

Richard is survived by his children, Allen (Linda) Hotchkiss, Barbara Dooley, Robert (Shelly) Hotchkiss, Dennis (Donna) Hotchkiss, and Larry (Debbie) Hotchkiss; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; sister, Elaine Gitler, Milwaukee; as well as many nieces and nephews.  Besides his wife, Maxine, Richard was preceded in death by; son Butch Hotchkiss; daughter Nancy Meurette; grandson Chad Hotchkiss and great grandson Treyden Kurtzweil; daughter-in-law Shar Hotchkiss; son-in-law Tom Dooley; sisters Aurelia Eckert, Maxine Grant; brothers Irvin And Tommy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, May 17, 2024, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee.  The Rev. Aaron Becker will officiate.  Burial will take place at Restlawn Memorial Park.  Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church.  Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee, is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.