Richard "Dick" Neu

life story

Loving Father, Grandfather, Friend

Miss Me, But Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me.

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a Soul set free.

Miss me a little, but not too long, and not with your head hung low.

Remember the Love that we once shared, Miss Me, but Let Me Go.

About Dick

Richard “Dick” Neu of Milwaukee, WI, passed away in the presence of his daughters on January 16th, 2022. He was 73 years old and died from complications related to dementia. He was from Milwaukee, WI and spent the majority of his life there.

Dick is survived by former wife and dear friend Therese Neu (nee Schilz). Loving dad to Natalie, Hillari (Tom) Olson, and Alyssa (Michael) Pangborn. Proud grandpa to Nathan Neu; Amelia, Hudson, and Adalyn Olson; Greta and Milo Pangborn. Dear brother-in-law to Nancy Neu. Preceded in death by his mother, Rose Neu Shaske (nee Lewandowski); his father, Leo Neu, and his brothers, Robert Neu and George DeMarais.

Dick graduated from Messmer High School in 1966 and earned his Associate’s Degree from MATC. He wed Therese in 1975 and they were married for 28 years. Dick spent his career in the grocery industry, primarily in distribution management. He traveled the upper Midwest and around Wisconsin for food shows and re-sets. His family enjoyed all the free “samples,” especially the cookies 😊.

Dick enjoyed all things Wisconsin, including the Packers, the Badgers, beer, brats, bars, family, friends, and going “up north.” You could almost always find him wearing some type of Wisconsin sports team apparel. He liked fishing, music (especially Rock and Roll—did you know his cousin is the lead guitarist in Huey Lewis and the News?!!), watching WI sports, and traveling. When his kids were younger, he always made sure the family took some type of vacation every year, whether it be up north to Whispering Pine Lodge in St. Germain, WI, or to the coast of the Carolinas to soak up the sun at the beach.

He adored his 6 grandchildren and connected with each of them in different ways. He would make frequent trips to Natalie’s in the Milwaukee area as well as Minnesota to visit and spend time with his grand kids. A fond grandkid memory is of their Grandpa waking up early (0500) to hit the bakery for donuts so that they could have them as soon as they woke up 😊.

Approximately five years ago, family began noticing some changes in Dick's health. They did their best to support him in WI, but ultimately moved him closer to family in MN. Dick lived with Hillari and her family for 6 months before moving into assisted living and ultimately, memory care. Over the past several years, his daughters did their best to support their dad, ensure him the highest level of independence possible, advocate for him, and preserve his dignity in every way possible. There were some challenging times, but there were also many beautiful memories made. Through challenge, there is beauty and blessing. Dad, we wish you peace and happiness, always. Until we meet again…

Visitation will be held at Good Shepherd Church in Menomonee Falls, WI, on Saturday, January 29th, 2022, from 10-11:00 am. A celebration of life service will follow at 11:00 am. In Dick’s memory, please consider a donation to Walker Methodist Senior Organization or Alzheimer’s Association.

memorial service

Celebration of Life for Dick Neu

January 29, 2022

Good Shepherd Catholic Church N88W17658 Christman Rd, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051, USA

Visitation will be held at Good Shepherd Church in Menomonee Falls, WI, on Saturday, January 29th, 2022, from 10-11:00 am. A celebration of life service will follow at 11:00 am.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services