Roosevelt – Richard Robert Bluemke 68, passed away on November 10, 2016 at the LakeWood Health Center in Baudette.
A mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, November 14 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Warroad. Interment was held at the St. Mary’s Cemetery. Military Honors by the Warroad American Legion.
Richard was born on October 18, 1948 in Thief River Falls, to Alice (Robidoux) and Robert Richard Bluemke. He grew up and attended school in Oklee, graduating from Oklee High School in 1967. He entered the U.S. Army in April of 1968 and served during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge in April of 1970. He and Sandra (Martell) were married on May 1, 1971; and to this union, two children were born, Deanna and Robert.
Richard worked as a plumber for Lee Plumbing and Heating, starting in 1970 until his retirement after 40 years. He and Sandra later retired at Arnesen’s Rocky Point. Richard enjoyed spending time with his grandkids, fishing and his morning coffee time at the Lodge. He will be remembered as a hard worker with a determined spirit, his infectious smile and someone with a “big heart.” He was a member of the Thief River Falls Eagles, American Legion, and the V.F.W. Blessed be his memory.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra Bluemke of Roosevelt; daughter, Deanna (Marty) Peterson of Plummer; son, Robert Richard (Lisa) Bluemke of Albertville; mother, Alice Bluemke of Fosston; grandchildren, Skyler, Savannah, Richard, and Ella; brother, Allen Bluemke of Meadowlands, and sister, Audrey Martell of Sioux Falls, S.D.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert; sister, Yvonne Altendorf; and in-laws, Benedict and Margaret Martell.