Richard William Jonas

Richard William Jonas, age 77, formerly of Chili, had been residing at Clark County Rehab and Living Center in Owen, Wisconsin, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

Richard was born on July 14, 1948, in Neillsville, Wisconsin, to Hazel F. (Hebert) Jonas and Joseph C. Jonas. He grew up in Chili and graduated from Marshfield Senior High School in 1966. Following graduation, Richard enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966. He served for three years, including one year of active duty in Vietnam in 1968. His military service was one of his greatest sources of pride, and he was honored to have earned the Shooting Medal, Rifle Sharpshooter Medal, Pistol Sharpshooter Medal, and Rifle Marksman recognition.

In 1999, Richard married Jeanette Digoski at Zion Lutheran Church in Granton, Wisconsin.

Richard worked for Marshfield Homes/Wick Building Systems for 30 years, specializing in making countertops. He retired after a long and dedicated career.

He enjoyed the simple joys of life and cherished time spent outdoors. Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman, loved woodworking, and took great pride in growing vegetables and flowers to show at both the Marshfield and Neillsville Fairs. He rarely missed a Friday night fish fry or a Sunday chicken dinner, and he especially enjoyed the steak feeds at the Eagles Club.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanette (Digoski) Jonas; his parents, Hazel and Joseph Jonas; his brother, James Jonas; and his sister-in-law, Sharon Jonas.

He is survived by his sister, Mary (Ken) Fischer of Edgar, Wisconsin, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 25, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville. Additional visitation will take place on Wednesday, November 26, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Zion American Lutheran Church in Granton, with a funeral service to follow, officiated by Pastor Dan Zimmerman.

Pallbearers will be his nephews and great-nephews.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Richard's family with funeral arrangements.