Richard John Cusick

Richard Cusick passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at his home after a lengthy illness. Born in 1940 in Eau Claire, WI to Marshall and Clara (Michels) Cusick, Richard graduated from Eau Claire Regis High School in 1958, and from the University of Wisconsin – Madison with a degree in Geology. Following graduation, he completed US Air Force officers' training in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Judith Pagel and Richard were married in Ladysmith, WI in 1965. They started their life together at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado. Richard served active duty in Bien Hoa, Vietnam from 1967, returning in 1968, acting as an Officer in charge of Communication, Navigation, and Electronic Countermeasures Repair Shop, Third Tactical Fighter Wing. He was also a qualified small arms marksman. He was able to participate in the Honor Flight through the Missions of Honor organization in 2024, an experience allowing veterans to receive the heartfelt "welcome home" they truly deserved.

After retiring from the USAF, Richard built a successful career as a Regional Sales Representative for Mercury Marine of Fond du Lac, serving the state of Florida and then the Midwest from St. Louis, Missouri. His career in sales also included District Sales Manager at BMW North America Marine Division (Chicago Branch) and later at Bergstrom Motors in Appleton, WI.

The family moved from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to St. Louis, Missouri, and then to Fond du Lac, WI, where they have a home on Lake Winnebago, enjoying life there for more than 50 years. All were welcome and many memories were created on and around this familiar and comfortable gathering place.

Friends would say that Richard loved being around people who appreciated a good story, whether of his telling or heard from someone else. He enjoyed good food, travel of all kinds, and above all, time spent with others. He had a way of making others feel heard and welcomed. A dedicated professional, devoted provider and family man, Richard will be remembered for his strength, loyalty, patience, and love of family. He brought a steady and generous presence to every room.

Even in his final months, Richard continued to live with dignity and generosity of spirit. Healthcare professionals, ranging from nursing, housekeeping, physicians, and therapists, often found in him not just a patient, but a partner in their work. He met them with gratitude and respect, making their demanding days a little lighter and their important work more meaningful. He was treated at SSM St. Agnes – Fond du Lac, Froedtert Hospital – Milwaukee, SSM St. Mary's – Madison, and Harbor Haven – Fond du Lac, and the VA Clinic in Appleton. We are also grateful to SSM Home Hospice for their care in returning him home, where he most wanted to be.

He is preceded in death by his brothers Timothy Cusick (Carolyn), Denver, CO, and David Cusick (Nancy), Barron, WI. He is survived by his wife, Judith; children Andrew and Amy, sisters Deborah Gustin and Kristine Bystedt Cusick, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled by Zacherl Funeral Home with visitation to be held on Wednesday, March 4th at 10 AM followed by a short service and military honors at 11:30 AM. Please join the family for refreshments and shared remembrances at the Lake Park Pavillion at Lakeside Park immediately after. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Fondy Food Pantry.

Online condolences can be shared at www.zacherlfuneralhome.com.