Richard C. Novetzke

Novetzke, Richard C. 81 years old, died in his home Oct. 2, 2013. Dick was born in Antigo, WI and moved as an infant to Stillwater, MN where he grew up and attended St. Michael's school and Stillwater Junior/senior high schools. Dick is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sally Johnson Novetzke, and four children, Sara Elliott (Wynn), Beth Johnsen, Chip Novetzke, Andrew (Lisa) and eight grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild and his sister, Dorothy May. Dick led an extraordinary life. He graduated from Stillwater High and attended St. Thomas University for two years, and then joined the Naval Cadet flight Academy and earned his wings in December of 1953. He married Sally Johnson, of Bayport, MN the day after he received his wings and then left for duty in Hawaii, Alaska, and Japan. When the Korean War was over, we went back to Minnesota and Dick received his degree from the University of Minnesota, and served another 2 years of service in Brunswick, Maine and Spain and then entered the world of commerce. In 1959, Dick moved his family to Cedar Rapids, where Dick was employed by Collins Radio. In 1971, Dick purchased Mid West Nameplate Co. (later called U.S Nameplate, Inc. and we made Cedar Rapids our permanent home. Dick never ended his love for flying and had two antique bi-wing planes which provided the family with more adventures. His zest for life was amazing, as was his love for his family and he has left us with enough stories of his life to pass down for generations. Funeral Mass: 11:00 AM on Monday at All Saints Catholic Church. Rev. John Flaherty will officiate. Private family inurnment at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Safe Place, and the Humane Society. Thank you Mercy Hospice. We are eternally grateful for your loving service. Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences: www.cedarmemorial.comThis obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.