Richard Rademaker

Richard H. Rademaker, 74, Rib Mountain, died Sunday, June 25, 2017 following a traffic accident in Rib Mountain.

Richard was born March 28, 1943 in Michigan to the late Henry and Emmy (Hietikko) Rademaker. He spent his first 16 years in Manistee, MI before moving to the Upper Peninsula where Emmy married the late Leo Kulkki and Leo helped to raise Richard and his brother, Bruce. Following high school, Richard graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Administration. He then served his country during the Vietnam War as a radio repairman in the US Army from 1968-69. Throughout his life, Richard worked in the insurance industry as an Insurance Adjuster first for General Adjustment Bureau in Marquette, Milwaukee and Fond du Lac before moving to Wausau and later worked for Milwaukee Insurance in Wausau.

Richard was a very loving and supportive father and grandfather who loved hugs. He always looked forward to spending time with family and was very active in supporting Brian and Allison while they were growing up playing hockey. Richard was known to be a bit stubborn but had an enduringly obnoxious sense of humor that could not help but bring a smile to your face. In his free time, he enjoyed collecting rocks and shared this pastime with his children and grandchildren. Richard was a very proud Yooper, Vietnam Veteran and delighted in his Finnish heritage always placing a bumper sticker on his car with the Finnish word "Sisu" meaning fortitude.

Richard is survived by his loving children, Brian Rademaker and Allison Samb; grandchildren, Makiyla Rademaker and Anna Samb; beloved special friend of many years, Dianne Koehler; former wife and friend, Barb Rademaker; brother, Bruce "Terry" Rademaker; and extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his aunt and uncle, Eva and Ed Galwas; Aunt Elsie and Uncle Arnie Hietikko.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Helke Funeral Home, Wausau. Pastor Gary Schultz will officiate. The visitation will begin at 9:00 AM on Saturday at the funeral home concluding at the time of service. Following the memorial service, military rites will be performed by VFW Burns Post #388. Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements; you may sign our family guest book at helke.com.

A special word of thanks goes to Dr. Matthew Clancy, MD of the Aspirus Wound and Hyperbaric Center for his personal attention and compassion. Heartfelt appreciation and gratitude goes to the police, EMT's and citizens who responded and cared for Richard following the traffic accident that later claimed his life.