Richard George Mentzel

Richard George Mentzel, age 90, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2023, peacefully from cancer.  He was born June 21, 1932, in Chicago, IL to Earl and Olga (Hutter) Mentzel.  He grew up playing ball in the streets of Chicago, and was an avid Boy Scout – reaching Eagle Scout, and began a lifelong love of bowling at a young age that continued until his death.  In 1950, he graduated from Lane Technical High School in Chicago.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1952- 1954.  After his honorable discharge from the Army, he joined his family in New Lisbon, WI. On April 12, 1957, he married Norma Jean Anderson of Tomah, WI. 

During his career, Richard worked for a variety of engineering firms to include R.A. Smith, Foth & Van Dyke and Donohue.  Prior to those, he was Superintendent for the Town of Menasha for 10 years.

They were blessed with 6 children:  Micheal (Cheryl) Mentzel, Thomas Mentzel, Steven (Lori) Mentzel, David Mentzel, Catherine (Marlin) Peterson, and Jeanne (Kevin) Goral.   A great joy of their later life was their 8 grandchildren: Andrew Mentzel, Tyler (Alyssa) Mentzel, Jordan (Caitlin) Mentzel, Austin Mentzel, Dylan Mentzel, Sarah Goral, Matthew Goral and Hannah Goral, and 1 great grandchild – Grace Mentzel.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son Thomas, and his brother Donald.

At Richard’s request, visitation and service will not be held at this time.  A graveside service and memorial will be held in coming weeks for family and friends.

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice Services for their care of Richard during his final weeks.