Richard D. Wondrash

Richard D. Wondrash, age 70, lifetime resident of Two Rivers, passed away early Sunday morning, May 4, 2025 due to bone and lung cancer at the Aurora Medical Center in Two Rivers.

Richard was born in Two Rivers on September 29, 1954 to Richard W. and Leona (Schultz) Wondrash. He attended Holy Redeemer Catholic School and later Magee elementary, and graduated from Washington High School with the class of 1973. During his high school years, he worked at the Zephyr Gas Station at the corner of Tannery & Mishicot Rd, and during his senior year of high school enlisted in the delay program and joined the United States Air Force in 1974. Richard went on to serve his country as a member of the U.S. Air Force for the next 20 years, retiring in 1994. During this time, he served tours in Korea, England, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Arizona, and Illinois.

He was united in marriage to Kathleen Borths on August 24, 1974. The couple was blessed with 50 years of marriage.

Moving back to Two Rivers after his military retirement, Rick began working for Mirro Aluminum Company before enrolling back in school at Silver Lake College where he earned his bachelor's degree. He later worked part-time for Schroeder's Department Store and as a substitute teacher in the Two Rivers School District; and helped out many years with the Speilbauer Group setting up fireworks for the City of Two Rivers 4th of July celebrations.

Over the years Richard remained very active within the community of Two Rivers. He was an active member of the American Legion Post #165 and VFW Post #1248 of Two Rivers, becoming a life-member of the VFW Post, serving as a trustee, and active member of the Honor Guard. In addition to being a member of the American Legion, he was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion where he held an officer position. He was a member of the DAV Chapter, and held the office of Legislative Advocate; and member of the 410 Security Police Assoc. He was on the scheduled list of veterans to go on the Old Glory Honor Flight, but unfortunately passed before being selected to go. Rick was a long-time member of the Two Rivers Knights of Columbus and member of the 4th degree, where he held several offices. He was a member of St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, currently serving as an usher, and former parish council member.

Rick loved spending time with his family, but his favorite was the Tuesday's spent with his grandson, when they would spend the day at the Manitowoc Zoo, mini-golfing, Schuette Park, and Taco Bell !

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Wondrash; son & daughter-in-law, Kristian (Gina) Wondrash; two daughters & sons-in-law: Tamara (Brian) Hooker, Cynthia (Jason) DePas; one grandson, Ethan (Savannah) Wondrash; and his great-grandson, 4 month old, Henry Joseph Wondrash. He is further survived by a sister & brother-in-law, Rita (Chappy) Peltier; three brothers & sisters-in-law: Ron (Mary) Wondrash, Jim (Sharon) Wondrash, Al (Peg) Wondrash; three brothers-in-law & two sisters-in-law: Calvin Winnega, Ed Meyer, Guy (Dawn) Borths, Barbara Borths; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Leona Wondrash; one granddaughter, Emmah Rose Wondrash; two sisters: Janice Meyer and Carol Winnega; one niece, Lori Winnega; one nephew, Todd Winnega; and his father & mother-in-law, LeRoy and Rosie Borths.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, May 9, 2025 at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, 3201 Mishicot Rd. Two Rivers. Rev. Dave Pleier will preside at the memorial mass, with military graveside honors being held at the church immediately following the mass by members of American Legion Post #165 and VFW Post #1248 of Two Rivers.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the church Friday morning from 9:00 until 11:15 a.m. There will be no Thursday evening visitation.

The funeral service will be live streamed on the St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church website or St. Peter the Fisherman Facebook page.

Online condolence messages may be shared at DejaMartin.com.

Memorials in Richard's name would be appreciated to Old Glory Honor Flight.

Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels of Two Rivers is assisting the Wondrash family with funeral arrangements.

The Wondrash family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the 3rd floor nursing staff at Aurora Medical Center, especially Tiffany, Michelle, and Sarah; and the caregivers of Aurora Hospice, especially Trisha for all the compassionate care and support given to Richard and our entire family. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.