MADISON - Richard L. Hodges, age 90, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on June 24, 1935, in Madison, the son of Irvin Hodges and Delores (Pieper) Chisman.

Dick graduated from Madison Central High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country from September 1954 to July 1958.

On November 15, 1958, Dick married Marlyn Brazee in Madison, Wis. Dick and Mar were married for 67 years. He took his vows of sickness and in health very seriously, caring for Marlyn at home during her 17-year illness with Alzheimer's.

Dick began his career in Law Enforcement with the Dane County Traffic Police in July 1961. Dane County Traffic Police merged with the Dane County Sheriff’s Office in 1981. Dick continued to serve his community until he retired as a sergeant in March of 1990. After retirement he worked as a court aide and primary assistant for the Police Academy at MATC.

He and his wife were faithful members of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.

Dick enjoyed camping and traveling. During his travels, he enjoyed biking, canoeing and playing cards. Many hours were spent playing Euchre and cribbage. During the holidays, he would routinely be seen at St. James Catholic Church making Pfeffernüsse, aka Pepper Nuts. During the winter months Dick loved going to Florida to see many friends and family. He also enjoyed his theater bus trips.

Dick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. There was nothing more important to him than his family.

Dick is survived by his daughters, Laura (Robert) Beale, Marcy (Doug) Marquis and son, Jim (Sue) Hodges; grandchildren, Shannon (Brady) Neuman, Matt Beale, Trent (Meghan) Beale, Wade Beale, Morgan Marquis, Sydney Hodges, Drew (Nicole) Easland and Joshua Easland; great-grandchildren, Jameson, Kashton, Colt, Hazel, Leighton, Emerson and Quinten; and sister, Pat (Gabe) Colombe. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marlyn Hodges; his grandchildren, Aaron Marquis, Ryan Marquis and Trey Easland; great-grandson, Beckam Neuman; parents, Delores and Irvin; and sister, Jean Carlisle. His beloved brother, Don Chisman passed away on January 13, 2026, just one day before Dick. They are in eternal peace together.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday. Dick and Mar will be laid to rest at a later date.

The family would like to thank Diana Choles, MD of SSM Health, for all her compassion. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Richard L Hodges

June 24, 1935 - January 14, 2026

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