Richard Fredrick Emil Lemke (May 8, 1946 – March 17, 2026) was born in Watertown, WI, the son of the late Erwin and Esther (nee Klemke). He was received into God’s family through baptism on July 14, 1946, at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Watertown, WI and confirmed there on April 10, 1960. His favorite memory of St. Mark’s is the inscription, in German, of Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”

He is survived by his wife, Deborah, his sister-in-law Lois Lemke, and nephews James Lemke and John Lemke. He is also survived by three stepchildren and their families; Jamie (Wendy) Jenkins, Murfreesboro, TN., granddaughter Marissa Jenkins, Gallatin, TN., Yara (Michael) Butler, Chappells, SC; Stephan (Gina) Langston, LeGrange, GA; and five cousins.

Rich grew up on a dairy farm and appreciated the beauty of God’s creation and was thankful for the blessings gained from working on the farm. That appreciation for God’s gifts led him to pursue a path in public ministry, which ended in 1970 when he felt the call to a different career. Yet he continued to work at gospel ministry as a lay person throughout his life.

Rich loved to learn new skills and was very knowledgeable in many areas. He designed and built his own home in WI. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others, whether as a schoolteacher, driving instructor, or just helping a neighbor. He loved classical music and poetry, and both memorized and wrote much. He earned a living as a tool and die machinist but enjoyed landscaping and gardening in his free time more. He loved to travel and see the country and the world. He enjoyed being with others and started a senior’s group at Abiding Peace. He and his wife hosted an annual Octoberfest party at their home.

Rich experienced numerous setbacks and failures during his life, but never lost his faith in God, or God’s presence. His favorite prayer was the prayer of St. Francis, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” His motto for daily life was: “I lack nothing.” When physical limitations hindered his movements, and others asked how he was doing, he would reply, “I am doing as well as the Lord wants me to be.” He enjoyed helping at church as long as he was able and loved promoting Abiding Peace Academy.

Because of his love for educating all of Jesus’ lambs, Rich asks that any memorials given in his name be for tuition assistance for Abiding Peace Academy or Abiding Peace Lutheran Church. (https://www.abidingpeacelutheran.org/page/3879/22987/Online-Giving)