Richard A Stalheim

Stalheim, Richard A. "Lucky" MADISON-Richard A. "Lucky" Stalheim left this world on Aug. 14, 2015, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Whitehall Wis., on June 23, 1929, to Arthur and Olive (Benrud) Stalheim. In 1944 he entered Madison Central High School where he met the love of his life Donna (Neu) Stalheim. They were married at St. Raphael's Cathedral in Madison on Oct. 25, 1952. They happily produced four beloved children. Richard spent the first few years of his life on a farm in the Whitehall/Pigeon Falls area until his family moved to Madison when he was a young child. Lucky and a friend once rode their bicycles from Madison to Eau Claire just to visit Donna for the weekend. He eventually sold his beloved Harley to buy Donna an engagement ring. Lucky served 18 years in the military between the U.S. Army, National Guard and Reserves. Lucky retired from Madison Gas and Electric in 1991 after 39 years. He made many of his great long-time friends here. Lucky was very interested in physical fitness and went to the gym to lift weights three times a week from the age of 14 to 80 when his illness finally forced him to stop. He could out lift men half his age and was always ready to help anyone who needed some "muscle" for moving, building or anything else he could help with. Lucky also enjoyed to bowl, golf and of course music. He was active in country music in and around the Madison area for over 30 years. Most of those in the Noteables and later in the band Dealer's Choice. Lucky had the pleasure of meeting many people through his music, many of which became long-time friends. When traveling with Donna, whether it be on a cruise or across the country, they would inevitably hear someone say "Hey Lucky". He knew someone wherever he went. Lucky is survived by his children, Randy (Patty) of Waunakee, Ron (Kelly) of Windsor and Roxanne of Madison; grandchildren, Ryan (Robin) of Oregon, Rachel (Matt) of Waunakee, Talon of Windsor and Krystal (Billy) of Madison; two great-grandchildren, Adelynn and Sara; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 63 years, Donna; his oldest son, Ric; and brothers and sisters. A Memorial Mass will be held at ST. OLAF CATHOLIC CHURCH, 623 Jefferson St., DeForest, at 11 a.m., on Friday Aug. 21, 2015. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday. Military honors will take place at the church. We would like to say a special thanks to Heartland Hospice, especially Tammy, Paula, Hilda, Susan, Carmen, Wayne, Kelly and the staff of Meadowmeare. If you feel you want to contribute a memorial we're sure he would recommend Father Flanagan's Boys Town in Omaha, Neb., who helps disadvantaged children, which his oldest son Ric had a passion for. Other suggestions would be St. Olaf Catholic Church in DeForest, Wis. and Heartland Hospice. We kids were very blessed to have such loving, supportive, devoted and fun parents. We will miss you both terribly but are happy you are together again as it should be. We love you Dad. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420