Richard Odell Lehnherr

MADISON-Richard Odell “Dick” Lehnherr, age 82, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 3, 2017.  He was born on Dec. 27, 1934, the son of Herman and Leota (Kellesvig) Lehnherr.  He was baptized and confirmed at Blanchardville Lutheran Church.  Dick graduated in 1953, from Blanchardville High School.  He joined the U.S. Army in March of 1955, was stationed in Oakanawa and honorably discharged in March of 1957.  Dick married the love of his life, Patricia Kraak on Dec. 30, 1960, and together they had a son, Jeffrey Allen.  He started his career in concrete construction working for Steel Forms Construction from 1958-1962.  Dick then went to work as a partner with Grove Concrete Construction for 10 years until 1972, when he formed his own company, Badger Concrete Construction.  He retired in 2001 after 40+ years of being in the concrete business.  Dick was known for his quiet ways, integrity and workmanship.  He was an avid Packers fan and classic car enthusiast.  Dick was a member of the Madison Vintage Auto Club and had three beautiful classic cars.  He attended many car shows in the area, winning many trophies and making many friends.  After retirement, Dick liked going up north to his son’s cottage in St. Germain with his wife, Pat to relax and play with his “grand dogs”, Jackie and Buddy.  He loved going to garage sales and auctions, spending hours looking for bargains and talking with people.  Dick is survived by his loving wife, Pat; son, Jeffrey; his" adopted son", Edward Claassen; "adopted daughter", Patti Kearns Tucker; Patti’s sons, Jack and Alex; and many other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gerald; in-laws, Mary and Lee Fugate; sister-in-law, Marilyn Steinman; niece, Paulette Berg; and other relatives.  A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 7 p.m., on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2017.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare.  The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Agrace HospiceCare, as well as the many doctors and staff at SSM Health Care, Madison. Also thank you to Wildwood Clinic in Cottage Grove, especially Dr. Steve.