Richard Carleton Wenholz

life story

Richard Carleton Wenholz of Minneapolis, MN, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2025.

He was born in Mora, MN to Melvin and Edna Wenholz. After high school, he moved to Minneapolis to attend Augsburg College. He loved the arts and pursued both acting and modeling, first relocating to California, then New York where he met his wife Marina. Marina and Richard moved to Spain where their three children were born before moving back to Minneapolis.

Richard was very creative and talented with a wide variety of interests and areas of expertise. He played piano and accordion with flair and was proficient in saxophone and the harmonica. He loved his time in Europe and enjoyed writing, gardening, nature, history, theater and modern and classical art. He would never forget birthdays or important events and would always remember to call or send a card. He could be found spending time in bookstores and libraries, exploring galleries, enjoying cafés and making conversation with a wide variety of people.

Richard is survived by his former wife, and always best friend, Marina; their three children, Philip (Katie Carleton), Stephanie (Josh McMahon), and Daphne; grandchildren, Ivan, Averie, Elena, Leo, Georgia and Natalya; his cousin, Jean Hawkins (Dale Hawkins); his pets, Arlet and Fahjah; and many other beloved friends and family. He will be fondly remembered for his enigmatic qualities, his ease of conversation, his sense of style, his love of animals, his spirited wit and unexpected commentary.

Richard is welcomed home by his parents and grandparents, his beloved pets and his many other friends and family in heaven.

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to the Walker Art Center where Richard spent many joyful hours. https://walkerart.org/support/

memorial service

Private Services

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services