Rick D. Beggs, Jr.

Richard “Rick” D. Beggs Jr., 78, of Bancroft, Wisconsin, passed away on December 8, 2025 peacefully at his home with his family by his side. Born in Chicago, Illinois on June 26, 1947, Rick later moved to Bancroft with his parents and sister. 

He graduated from Tri-County High-School in Plainfield in 1965. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1965–1969, he often said that his senior class trip was to Vietnam. His service remained a point of honor throughout his life.

 Rick met and started dating the love of his life, Julie, when he got home from the service in 1969. They lived in Chicago for a short time, but wanted to raise their family in central Wisconsin, so they moved home. Rick was always a hard worker, he worked various jobs early in his life: Dudei & Sons Construction, bartending at Adrian Hentges Sportsman’s Bar, and delivery driver for Bakerite to name a few. Rick and Julie decided to buy a tavern in Bancroft which they turned into the well known Rick & Julie’s Bancroft Saloon. They owned and operated the bar for 20 memorable years. The bar became a gathering place filled with friendship, laughter, and countless stories—many of Rick’s favorite memories were made within those walls. He worked many years as a U.S. Mail Carrier. He also loved driving truck for many local farmers for years, and would often share those stories with his family.

 Rick is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Julie (Dudei) Beggs; his children Nicole (Keith) Dernbach, Eric Beggs, Andrea (Ryan) Johnson, Brady Beggs; and his grandchildren Chloee, Lexie, Brody Dernbach, Nolan, Parker, Sadie Johnson. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

 Above all, Rick cherished his family and the home they built together on 5th Avenue. He was known for always having a quick-witted comment, a good story ready to tell, and a deep loyalty to the people he loved. His presence brought warmth, humor, and comfort to those around him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Those who knew him would often hear things like “Lights on for safety” and “Call me for bail money” after visiting, and might have even got their eye licked. So long Dad...we’ll see you soon.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Stahl Funeral Home, Plainfield. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until the time of services at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in the Pine Grove Cemetery.