Richard G. Paveletzke

Richard “Dick” Paveletzke, age 78, passed away peacefully at his dream home in Boulder Junction, WI on Friday, September 15, 2023. He was born in Appleton, WI on November 28, 1944 to Edward and Elaine Paveletzke of Menasha. Dick attended Menasha High School and served in the United States Marine Corps from 1963 to 1970. He was Honorably Discharged and received numerous medals, including the Purple Heart, during his service in Vietnam. He saw the worst in humanity during the war, but somehow managed to see the best in people during his life. On May 11, 1968 he married Sue Biese of Kaukauna at Holy Cross Church in Kaukauna and they had 50 wonderful years together. They were blessed with two children, Amy (Kreg) Schmitting, Sherwood and Wade Paveletzke, Neenah. He was employed by Menasha Utilities for 30 years. Dick loved camping, the Packers, playing cards and barbecuing. After retirement, he and Sue built their lake house in Boulder Junction, WI. He loved giving visitors a lake tour on his pontoon boat, which we called the “3-hour tour” (Gilligan’s Island fans will know that reference). He is also survived by his dearly loved granddaughter, Jordan (Travis) Hammerstad and grandchildren of his heart: Johnathon, Carly and Derek Schmitting. Dick is further survived by numerous brother in-laws, sister in-laws, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. All of them wonderful, talented, smart, comical and a joy for him to see and visit with, most of them at the annual Biese Pool Party in Kaukauna. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Elaine Paveletzke; his wife’s parents, Gene and Betty Biese; his wife, Sue Paveletzke; his sister, Dorothy Vogel and brother in-law, Bob; his brother in-law, Donnie Biese; sister in-law, Kathryn Biese and great niece, Elizabeth Girardelli. He was forever grateful for his loving family, especially Sue, the love of his life. People are surprised that they got engaged 6 days after meeting, but when it’s right, it’s right. His granddaughter, Jordan (Snookie) was the light of his life the last 25 years. They had a bond that was unmatched. Dick was extremely personable and could strike up a conversation with anyone about anything. He was an amazing joke and storyteller and was always a very generous soul. He is finally reunited with his soulmate, Sue. His family is sure he is in heaven people-watching and enjoying the corner piece of every cake he comes across. We love you, Dad! Per Dick’s wishes, no services will be held.

Richard G. Paveletzke

November 28, 1944 - September 15, 2023