MADISON - Richard Alan “Rich” Mortensen, age 74, of Madison, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. He was born on April 20, 1948, in Madison, son of the late Ned and Norma (Johnsen) Mortensen.

Rich graduated from Madison East High School in 1966 and received a Bachelor of Science degree from UW-Madison in 1970. He then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served from 1971 to 1979 with a final rank of Captain. Rich worked as an executive with the State of Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction until he retired in 2008.

Rich enjoyed being outdoors in nature and staying physically active by running, playing softball, hunting, and more. Traveling, hiking, and biking were among the many activities that Rich loved to do with his best friend and partner of 16 years, Jan. Most of all, Rich enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, especially his children and grandchildren.

Rich is survived by his two sons, Jeff (Brenda) Mortensen and Brian (Connie) Mortensen; partner, Jan Zimmermann; and four grandchildren, Cody Mortensen, Bryce Mortensen, Paige Lowell and Abigail Lowell.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 9, 2022. Burial will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

Memorials may be gifted in Rich’s name to Groundswell Conservancy, 303 S. Paterson St., Suite 6, Madison, WI 53703. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Rich Mortensen

April 20, 1948 - May 03, 2022

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