Dennis J. Radichel

Dennis Jerome Radichel, 81, of Onalaska, passed away at his home on Thursday, May 21, 2020.

He fell asleep confident that eternal life in heaven awaited him because of his gracious Lord’s salvation. Above all, Dennis was a man of faith who put his trust in the Lord for forgiveness and eternal life. His faith has now become sight. Truly, it is well with his soul.

Dennis was born December 8, 1938, in New London, WI, to Edgar and Olga (Boettcher) Radichel.  He attended Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School in Hortonville, WI, and graduated from Winnebago Lutheran Academy in Fond du Lac, WI, in 1956.  Dennis later received a degree in education from Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, MN.  On December 2, 1961, Dennis married Marion Bobholz in Friesland, WI.

Dennis taught at St. John’s Lutheran Grade School in Montello, WI, and then at Grace Lutheran Grade School in Oshkosh, WI. During his time as an educator, he thoroughly enjoyed coaching basketball and directing choral groups.  In 1973, he and Marion moved to Onalaska where Dennis eventually took over ownership of his father’s business, Ed’s Upholstery Shop, which he operated for over 40 years until retiring in 2017.

Dennis was a long-time, active member of St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Onalaska, where he served on the church council for 13 years.  He was a strong advocate for Christian education and was instrumental during the early years of St. Paul’s Lutheran School while serving as the first chairman of its board of education.

Throughout his life, Dennis loved spending time with his family. In the early years of their marriage, Dennis and Marion enjoyed biking, snowmobiling, and motorcycle rides. He enjoyed the outdoors whether it was fishing with his nephews, camping with his friends and family, or exploring important landmarks across the country on family vacations. Dennis was an avid sports fan and passionately followed the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. He was a strong supporter of Luther High School and enjoyed many athletic events and sacred concerts, both while his daughters attended school and for many years after. In retirement, he enjoyed gardening, scroll sawing, and watching his grandchildren participate in their various activities.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marion; his daughters, Kay Radichel of Bloomington, MN, and Kim (Tim) Berg, and grandchildren, Andrew, Trenten and Avery Berg, all of Onalaska; a sister, Rhoda (Don, deceased) Krueger of Mauston, WI.; a brother, Nathan (Lollie) Radichel of Rainier, WA; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service may be scheduled for a later date.  In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to St. Paul’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Onalaska or Luther High School.