Richard Bertuzzi

Bertuzzi
Richard "Dick" Henry Bertuzzi, 82, entered into eternal rest after a courageous battle with bone cancer. A memorial service will be held at VA Houston National Cemetery on December 27, 2010, 2:30pm.
Dick, born April 24,1928 to Fred and Barbara Bertuzzi in Arma, Kansas, graduated from Kansas Univ. with a B.S. in Chemistry. He was one of a select few of KU graduates lettering in football & baseball. Dick's 360 yard rushing record established in 1945 as a freshman, was held until1980; as well as career 10 interceptions record held until 2009. As a member of the KU 1948 Orange Bowl team, he was awarded "Outstanding Back" for the 1948 KU season. Following an outstanding college athletic & academic career in 1949, the Chicago Bears drafted him as a running back/defensive corner back. In 1950 Dick's stellar baseball career at KU landed him a position with the semi-pro El Dorado Elks, later inducted into the El Dorado Baseball Hall of Fame.
In 1950, during the Korean Conflict, he joined the Army, and honorably discharged in 1952. He married Thelma V. Bone on February 28,1953 in Kansas City, MO. In 1953, he began his 25 year career with Cook Paint & Varnish Co.; eventually promoted to Sales Manager over 26 salesmen. In 1978 he formed Sun Country Dist. selling resins and related items to the Cultured Marble/Fiberglass industry until his retirement in 1994.
Avid golfers, they joined Braeburn Country Club in 1961. With friends & family, our Dad always enjoyed real thought provoking conversation on topics ranging from horse racing to politics and everything in between.
In 2001, Thelma "T" Bertuzzi, wife of 48 years, preceded Dick in death. Their family would like to thank his doctors and medical staff at Memorial Hermann and Vitas. Survivors include daughter Dr. Gina B.Trew & husband David C. Harber of Amarillo; son Richard Mark Bertuzzi & wife Teri of Houston; brother Andrew Bertuzzi & wife Betty of Corpus Christi; six grandchildren: Clayton Trew & J.T. Trew, Natalie Butler R.D. & husband Craig, Marci Bertuzzi & friend Kris Lacey, Cameron Bertuzzi & fianc? Brittany Rogers, Trevor Bertuzzi; two great grandchildren: Kaley Bertuzzi & Hudson Butler; niece Patricia Middleton & husband Bill; nephew Mike Bertuzzi & wife Caroline, children Amanda & Alex.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be sent to Kansas University Alumni Association 1266 Oread Ave. Lawrence, KS 66045-3169