Richard C. Wiisanen

It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Richard (Dick) Cordell Wiisanen, age 84, of Blaine, Minnesota. Richard was born to William and Elma Wiisanen on March 21, 1942 in Minneapolis, MN.

Proceeded in death by his mother, father and brother, William (Bill) Luverne Wiisanen and his beloved cat, Raymond. Dick is survived by his daughters, Carla Hale (Daniel Hale) and Shana Morrissette (James Morrissette, Jr.), four grandchildren, Andrew, Caitlyn, Carter and Jayde and 3 great -grandchildren, Miles, Cienna and Emmett.

Dick graduated from North Highschool in 1960. He continued his education at the University of Minnesota studying structural steel design. He also attended Dunwoody Institute to study building construction. He had an amazing career with several steel fabricators which moved him from Minnesota to Wisconsin and Indiana. He was most proud of his work designing the Minneapolis IDS tower, the old St. Paul Civic Center, the Notre Dame hockey arena and the Indianapolis Colts stadium. Upon retirement he settled back in Minnesota near family and friends.

Dick was an avid golfer and played Brookview every Tuesday with his buddies. He loved bingo at the Sunset Grill, was a fierce cribbage player and was decent at pickleball and bowling, too! He was a proud veteran who served in Navy Air Reserves 1964-1970.

One of Dick’s favorite past times was watching sports. He cheered on all the Minnesota teams, especially the Wild & Gophers. He loved Sunday football and was dedicated to his fantasy team studying sports statistics and keeping meticulous records. Dick especially loved his cat, Raymond, who gave him 17 years of love and companionship.

His grandkids loved his silly magic tricks and the “7 tortures”. He spent hours in the bleachers cheering on his grandson Carter in hockey and lacrosse.

Dick had a quirky sense of humor and was a master at Irish goodbyes. He loved to share stories of growing up on his uncle’s farm in Kingston, MN where he shared many good times with his brother and cousins. He was not a world traveler, never owned a passport and lived a simple life. Being 100% Finnish, no one loved a good long hot sauna more than him.

A Celebration of Dick’s life will be held on July 29th. For details, please contact his daughters, Carla or Shana.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

July 29, 2026

For details, contract his daughters, Carla or Shana.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services