Richard H. Wempe 1943-2022

WEMPE, PLUTH, RUSKELL

Posted By: Barry R Huntsinger (email)
Date: 5/29/2022 at 12:56:55

Richard H. Wempe, son of Bernard and Hilda (Pluth) Wempe, was born on June 4, 1943 in Estherville, Iowa. He passed away on May 18, 2022 at Accura Nursing Home in Spirit Lake, Iowa at the age of 78 years.

Dick graduated from Terril High School in 1961. He was united in marriage to Kathy Ruskell on January 20, 1968. The couple had two children Kelly and Darin. Richard and Kathy were later divorced. Richard grew up on a farm east of Terril. He continued his love for farming the rest of his life. He also enjoyed the independence that came with driving a semi. He transported livestock after high school. Once he started his own family he invested in his own farm to raise hogs. The freedom of the road drew him back and in 1985 he went back on the road as a long haul driver.

Dick was a member of the Dickinson County Pork Producers. He enjoyed raising hogs at his farm. “Wempe” was a very friendly guy, making friends everywhere he ventured in his truck. He really enjoyed socializing with his friends.

Dick is survived by his children Kelly (Pat) McGowan of Prior Lake, Minnesota and Darin (Tricia) Wempe of Spencer, Iowa; eight grandchildren Sean, Meghan, Aidan and Katie McGowan and Clayton, Carson, Elizabeth, and Carver Wempe. He is also survived by his sister Evelyn Prentice as well as several nieces and nephews.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents and his brother James Wempe.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at St. Patrick's Catholic church in Estherville with Father Paul Kelly officiating. Interment was at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Estherville.

(Source: Henry-Olson Funeral Home, Estherville, Iowa.)