Niles Richard "Dick" Wedge

Niles Richard "Dick" Wedge, 80, of Lake City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016, after a two-year battle with cancer, at the Mayo Health System Lake City hospital.

He was born Oct. 6, 1935, in Rochester, to Niles A. and Josephine (Clay) Wedge.

Dick graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1953 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Carleton College in Northfield, Minn., in 1957. He married Ruth Reppe in 1961 and enjoyed many happy years in Zumbrota. As a member of the National Guard, he served his country for six years. Dick and his brother, Jim, owned the family business, Wedge Lumber Company, in Zumbrota. Following his career in the lumber business, he used his knowledge to further his career learning computer-aided drafting. He and Ruth moved to Florida, where he worked as an autoCAD draftsman for 10 years. In 1997, they returned to Minnesota to be involved in their children and grandchildren's lives. Dick continued his drafting business in Willmar, Hutchinson, and most recently Lake City, where he enjoyed this work until his cancer diagnosis.

In high school, Dick was active in football, basketball, and baseball. He was also a proud Eagle Scout, which shaped his way of living. He loved outdoor activities, including canoe trips to the Boundary Waters, fishing, and spending time at his family cabin. He took care of the girls in his life, always putting them first. He was equally proud of his grandchildren and sons-in-law, and deeply involved in their lives. He served his community by being active in Kiwanis, and volunteered his time at First Lutheran Church.

We will remember Dick's quiet strength, positive energy, and humble presence. He loved unconditionally, and has been a role model to his family and friends.

Dick is survived by his wife, Ruth; two daughters, Carrie (Mike) Griebenow, Lake City, and Anne (Jeff) Solberg, Zumbrota; son in-law, Steve Jacobs of Kerrville, Texas; five grandchildren, Kevin, Kiah, Zach, Ben, Jake; a brother Jim (Sue) Wedge of Zumbrota; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Dick is preceded in death by one daughter, Gina Jo (Wedge) Jacobs, and his parents, Niles and Josephine (Clay) Wedge.

A memorial service will be on Saturday, March 5, at 11 a.m., at First Lutheran Church in Lake City, with the Rev. Tim Ehling and the Rev. Duane Holst officiating. Burial will be at a later date at the Zumbrota Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, March 4, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at First Lutheran Church and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Dick's young friend, Matteo, who has autism, was an influential spiritual force in Dick's life over the last few months. Memorials can be given to the Matteo Musso Autism Therapy Fund, which will further develop his special gifts. Memorials can be sent to 4339 Rutgers Court, Livermore, CA 94550. Memorials can also be given to First Lutheran Church in Lake City, United Redeemer Lutheran Church in Zumbrota, or First Congregational Church in Zumbrota.

Online condolences can be sent to http://www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.