Search by Name

Search by Name

Richard Ward TONGEN

1936 - 2020

Richard Ward TONGEN obituary, 1936-2020, North Oaks, MN

BORN

1936

DIED

2020

Richard TONGEN Obituary

On Thursday, December 10, 2020, Richard (Dick) Ward Tongen, loving husband and father of five boys, passed away at age 83. Dick was born on December 22, 1936, in MINNEAPOLIS, MN to Lyle and Veda (Christianson) Tongen. He worked in a variety of executive roles at several insurance-related companies for more than 35 years, spending most of his career at The St. Paul Cos. in St. Paul, MN. The family lake place in Minaki was always his special place and sanctuary that he loved to share with family and friends. A blissful day would likely start with pancakes, followed by some fishing with a relative, friend, or his well-loved pup Cullie. Then perhaps a nap on the screened-in porch after cleaning a limit worth of walleye - followed by cocktails with a "few" people and a fresh fish dinner. A grand day by anyone's measure. Dick was preceded in death by his father Lyle, his mother Veda, his brothers Thomas and William, and his son Todd (Karen). He is survived by his wife Lynn (Smillie), his sons, Ward (Nuk and Chue), Scott (Patti), Christopher and Nicholas (Özge), his sister Mary (Thomas Kirk), five grandchildren, one great-grand daughter, and other loving family members. The family would like to thank Allina Hospice White Bear Lake/NE Team for their exceptional, loving care. A private family ceremony will be held this summer in Minaki. In lieu of flowers, a memorial to Allina Hospice Care would be more than appreciated. Fare Thee Well, My Honey, Fare Thee Well

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Pioneer Press on Dec. 13, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard TONGEN

Sponsored by St Paul Pioneer Press.

Not sure what to say?





Bob and Bonnie Goszka

January 4, 2021

Dick, will be missed by those who know him when he lived in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a caring and generous person who you could always count on in time of need.

Becky (Tongen) Ault

December 14, 2020

I am so very sorry to hear of Dick's passing. While I didn't know him well, I will always think of him at Minaki - having fun - and making cocktails.

Joan Christianson

December 13, 2020

Minaki won't be the same without Dick. We were always so appreciative of his welcoming smile, great conversation and sense of humor. We feel thankful for every moment we shared and will carry him forward in our hearts. Blessings and love to every member of his family that have a little piece of their heart missing but the love of Dick to give them strength.

Betty McCain

December 13, 2020

Dick was my 1st 'big boss' the General Manager at St. Paul Fire & Marine in the newly built service center in Bloomington, IL. Most employees were intimidated by Dick when he stood in the SE corner outside his office tossing his keys up/down looking over his office (there were no cubicles, he could eyeball everyone). I wasn't intimidated because I got to know Dick, Lynn and the boys outside the office. To me he was a big teddy bear and was my favorite. Even though I haven't seen the Tongens for years; have kept up through Facebook. My deepest deepest sympathies to Lynn, Ward and the entire Tongen family for Dick's passing....Betty McCain, claims dept

Janet Avery

December 13, 2020

My sympathies to all the Tongens. I'm so sorry for your loss, and I hope your good memories of him will be a comfort in this difficult time.

Rodney Liew

December 13, 2020

Dick was a wonderful, wonderful man. In 1992, I attended the Tongen’s annual Christmas party for the first time and was nervous about how Dick will respond to me. Upon entering his home and being introduced to him, he immediately hugged and kissed me which made me feel at ease instantly. It was also a sign that he accepted me as part of his family.

Over the years, he had touched me with his generosity and kindness. He didn’t speak a lot but I always felt his sincerity and genuineness.

I will certainly missed him! RIP, Dick. You will always be fondly remembered.

Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

Make a Donation
in Richard TONGEN's name

Memorial Events
for Richard TONGEN

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard TONGEN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more