Richard J. Neis
Richard J.
Neis, 72, of Fond du Lac, passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2020. He was born on
August 17, 1947 to Norbert and Mildred (Krause) Neis in Columbus, WI.
Rick married
Paulette Verhasselt on May 13, 1967.
Rick served
his country for seven years in the United States National Guard. He worked at
Pierce Manufacturing and then Mercury Marine before starting his own business,
Country Curios in Fond du Lac, which operated for 42 years, specializing in
furniture refinishing and restoration and concrete lawn ornaments. He was voted
annual president of the OCPA, an international organization for concrete
producers.
Rick had a
deep passion for antique outboard motors. He loved to restore the motors and
traveled to numerous shows over many years. Rick was well respected by the
members of his local chapter of The Antique Outboard Motor Club, Inc and was a
past president. He loved fishing and camping anywhere he could; it was a great
past time for him to relax. Rick’s woodworking skills allowed him to build two
campers and two boats that he loved to show off to everyone. He loved to write
and wrote many great short stories. He dedicated many years to genealogy
research which led him to travel to Germany to meet cousins, his ancestor’s
homes and churches. Rick never met a stranger and will be greatly missed by
many.
Rick is
survived by his wife, Paulette; his sons, Marty (Melissa) Neis and Scott (Debbie)
Neis; his daughter, Michele Neis; his grandsons, Brandon, Nikolas and Evan; his
mother, Mildred; sister, Terri (Dave) McDermid; brother, Thomas Neis; other
relatives and many friends.
He was
preceded in death by his father, Norbert.
A
Remembrance Gathering for Rick will be held at a later date. Cremation has
taken place.
“A Special
thanks to the staff and doctors in the ICU and the 5th Floor at St.
Agnes Hospital for their care and compassion given to Rick.”
Online condolences may be expressed at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com