Richard Wayne Bathke

Richard Wayne Bathke, of Greenfield, WI, passed away on March 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Richard built a life grounded in hard work, loyalty, and deep devotion to the people he loved. He spent his career as an electrician, a trade that suited his steady hands, sharp mind, and determination. Whether on the job or at home, he was the person everyone knew they could count on.

Richard proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, the Army Reserves, and the Air National Guard. His dedication to service-both military and civilian-was a defining part of who he was

Richard's greatest joy came from spending time with his family-especially his grandsons, who were the light of his life. He loved golfing on a sunny afternoon, casting a line into the water on a peaceful morning, and riding his ATVs with the same youthful enthusiasm he carried throughout his life. His presence made ordinary moments feel special.

Richard also gave generously of his time and talents to his community. He served as an usher at Our Lady of Lourdes church and could often be found cutting the church lawn, taking pride in keeping the grounds beautiful. He volunteered as a coach for his children's baseball and softball teams, sharing his patience, humor, and love of the game with countless young players. As a den leader for the Cub Scouts, he helped guide and encourage boys during some of their most formative years. He spent many summers at Schoetz Park cutting grass so that all the local kids had a well kept place to play ball - a quiet act of service that meant more to the community than he ever claimed credit for.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Andrews (and her spouse Ray), his father Wayne Bathke, and his brothers Daniel Bathke and James Bathke.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ann Bathke (née Plesser); his children, Michael Bathke (spouse Amy) and Katherine Chesney (spouse Jeff); his cherished grandsons Jeremy, Andrew, Matthew, Joey, and Luke; his sister Marilyn Goodman (spouse Tom); his sister in law Sandra Bathke, his stepbrother Ray Christiansen (spouse Lucy); and all of his nieces and nephews, who adored him.

A visitation to honor Richard's life will be held at Heritage Funeral Home, 4800 S. 84th St. Greenfield, WI 53228 , on March 30, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A short service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

Richard had an incredibly passionate spirit, loved telling stories-mostly funny, sometimes inappropriate-and was well known for his unforgettable ability to clear a room. If you knew him, you knew. His family loved him deeply and will miss him dearly.