Richard Braatz

Richard Albert Braatz, 83, Wausau, died Friday, September 29, 2017 at Garden Side Crossing at North Central Health Care, Wausau.

Richard was born February 1, 1934 on the family homestead in the Town of Stettin to the late Emil and Elizabeth (Wolter) Braatz. He faithfully served his country in the US Army. Richard married the love of his life, Elizabeth Adamski, on September 23, 1967 at Holy Name Catholic Parish, Wausau. Over the years, Richard enjoyed driving his tractor around while he worked his farm growing ginseng, caring for beef cattle, chickens and pigs while also working in the factory for Hammerblow for over 20 years.

Richard was a complex man with a very playful streak. He liked to play Sheepshead, watching old westerns, cheering on the Green Bay Packers and caring for his dog.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Elizabeth; siblings, Walter Braatz, Emil (Verona) Braatz and Erna Prosser; and extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by by his siblings, Elsie Osterbrink, Edna Fletcher, Betty Braatz and Paul Braatz.

The funeral service for Richard will be at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Wausau. Pastor Philip Schneider will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until the time of service at the church on Thursday. Burial will be at Pine Grove Cemetery. Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements; you may sign our family guestbook at helke.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Wisconsin Chapter in Richard’s memory (3313 S. Packerland Drive, Suite E, De Pere, WI 54115).

A heartfelt word of thanks and appreciation goes to the nurses and staff of North Central Health Care especially to the caregivers of Evergreen Place and Gardenside Crossing where Richard lived in last years.








Richard's Memorial Folder