Richard Draeger

MADISON-Richard "Rick" Draeger, age 79, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, April 1, 2018, at his home.  Ever the comedian, when he was asked what his obituary should say, he simply replied, “I died!” Rick’s death marked the end of a fascinating run on this planet, full of passion and witty retorts.  Rick was born on Dec. 27, 1938, in Madison, the son of Carl and Gladys (Johnson) Draeger.  He graduated from Madison East High School and attended Wisconsin School of Electronics.  After many years of state service, he retired as a Maintenance Supervisor with DNS.  He served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany with Elvis (so he claims).  Rick made the best decision of his life when he married Vickie Arvold on Oct. 15, 1966.  After 51 years of marriage, he passed away on her birthday.  At least he made it easy for her to remember the date.  His love for her was rivaled only by his love for building and racing slot cars.  A talented artist and musician, Rick played guitar and drums with several bands in his youth (and not-so-youth).  Keeping the music in his heart until the end, there were few moments when Rick couldn’t be caught humming a tune or tapping out rhythms with his fingers.  On Saturday mornings, he could be spotted checking out local garage sales with his grandson in tow, and searching for fascinating relics (and junk) from years long past.  He was the one wearing the Green Bay Packers winter coat, year-round.  Rick spent hours poring over volumes of his family history, long before it became the cool thing to do, and spent even more hours watching every movie he could get his hands on.  Few could appreciate a cowboy western film more than Rick.  In his later years, he loved playing board games surrounded by his family.  Rick is survived by his wife, Vickie; sons, Matthew Draeger Sr., and Nathan (Todd) Draeger; grandson, Matthew Draeger Jr.; daughter, Jamie Draeger; brothers, David and Jeff Draeger; sister, Angela Draeger; and other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Delores Carney and Carol Vinje. His family wishes to thank Agrace HospiceCare for their exceptional care and support, especially Nicole, Bronwyn and Tracy. A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2018.  A private burial with military honors will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in Rick's name. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Dr. (608) 221-5420