Richard (Monk) Amundson

life story

Wisconsin's number one sport's fan & everyone's friend.

Monk was a lover of all sports, but most importantly WI sports, especially the Packers, Badgers and Brewers. He was known most for his kindness and was a friend to any and all.

Husband, dad, grandpa & friend

Richard (Monk) Amundson, age 83, in his true fashion, snuck out of this earthly world with family nearby. He was born May 3, 1941 in Hudson, WI to Floyd Russell and Marie (Johnson) Amundson. He grew up loving the outdoors, fishing and hunting. In fact he became a local hero one day hunting by helping to catch a fugitive.

After graduating from Hudson High School, Monk served in the US Navy and Navy Reserves for six years. He had a great fondness for Hawaii stemming from his time stationed there. Upon his return stateside, he was blessed with 3 children from his first marriage to Marie Johnson (Bennington); a daughter Lisa and two sons, Richard (Rich) and Robert (Bob).

Many know Monk from his days at the JR ranch where he tended bar and then met his future wife. He was united in marriage to Jodell (Jody) Gilbertson on February 24th, 1978. They were blessed with one daughter, Angie.

Monk retired from 3M after 35 years as custodian. In retirement he enjoyed cards and golf with friends and family. It was never surprising to find him at the kids table and he truly enjoyed being Grandpa. Hair, make up and nails with granddaughters did not threaten his masculinity.

He was a man of few words with a bartender's ear but still liked to get out and about. He was generous with terms of indearment and loved to tease. His early coffee days began at Pudge’s and over the years grew to include Mudds/Guvs, Kozy and Village Inn, often 3 times a day. “Up North” had a new meaning. He was known most for his kindness and was a friend to any and all.

He is survived by his wife Jody; his children Lisa (Jordan) Helgeson, Rich (Michelle) Amundson, Bob (Dana) Amundson and Angie Amundson; grandchildren Megan Amundson (Connor Johnson), Sara Nordgren (Logan Veenendall), Nicole Amundson, Alison Nordgren (Bryan Turrentine), Emma Amundson and Jack Seggelke. Four great grandsons; Aden & Samuel Turrentine, Harvey & George Johnson; a sister, Susan (Lorry) Moe and many beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Lawrence (Larry) and Jerome (Jerry) Amundson.

To honor his wishes there will not be a formal service. A Celebration of Life will take place in the afternoon of February 15th at the Village Inn, a favorite coffee stop. Internment will be held privately at a later time.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

February 15, 2025

Village Inn Sports Bar, Grill & Pizzeria 723 6th St N, Hudson, WI 54016, USA

12:00PM - 4:00PM

Please come in sports apparel and share a favorite story.