Richard J. Pletz Jr.

Richard John Pletz Jr., age 74, of Kenosha WI passed away at his residence on February 10th, 2023.

He was born on October 17, 1948 to the late Richard Pletz Sr. and Lorraine Hall and he was a brother to John, Ronald, Tommy, Mike, Carol (Gobel), Paul, Marty and Brad.

Close relatives left behind include his sons Terry and David Nelson; sons Aaron and Eric Pletz; nephew Tommy Pletz Jr. (wife Tiffany); along with many children and grandchildren whether by blood or through caring relationships. Richard will also be mourned by many who were touched by his care during times of hardship in their lives.

Richard was emancipated at age 15 and worked many different jobs in Chicago through his early years. He raised Aaron and Eric in Antioch IL as a single parent.

Richard loved to remember places and people from his “good old days” and often expressed amazement at how the world had changed during his lifetime. He bemoaned the disappearance of farmland and rural beauty at the hand of growing cities, residential developments and businesses.

In his later years Richard developed a caring heart for young people who struggled with poor life choices and addictions and who lacked the support they needed to get on their feet. He came along side them as a caring friend to help them learn new life skills that could lead to a healthy and productive life. Richard also participated with Jerry and Nancy Christensen at New Song Prison Ministries, helping men coming out of prison with transportation, finding housing and jobs and preparing meals for New Song programs.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held at 10 am on Saturday March 4 at Christ The King Church, 5934 8th Ave Kenosha WI 53140. Parking is available on nearby streets, including Library Square.