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Richard (Dick) Peitso, age 80, peacefully passed away August 14th, 2024, at home at The Sycamore of River Falls, WI. Dick was born March 22nd, 1944, in Ely, MN. He spent his childhood fishing, swimming and hunting in the woods surrounding Ely and Robinson, MN. Dick graduated from Ely Memorial High School then attended Ely Junior College before transferring to UMD in Duluth, MN completing his bachelor’s degree in science education. Dick also received an NSF scholarship to Miami of Ohio earning a master’s degree in chemistry.
While attending classes at UMD, Dick met a special lady, Lorraine Jarvi. They married in 1966 in Ely, MN. After marriage, they moved to Spooner, WI where Dick began his teaching career in Minong, WI before moving to River Falls, WI. Dick taught at the High School in New Richmond, WI for 30+ years before retiring in 1999.
Dick was an avid outdoorsman, spending hours at their cabin he built by hand near Cumberland, WI. Whether he was hunting, snowmobiling, cutting wood or just walking the trails, it was evident that he was happiest being out in the woods. He was also an active member of the local sportsmans club, getting together every Monday evening to shoot in the warmer months. Dick was part of the MARS (Military Auxiliary Radio Service) as the Wisconsin state director for many years running local communication and helping with facilitating community events and public service.
While not spending time outdoors, Dick and Lorraine enjoyed traveling across the US and to the Caribbean. They were avid cruisers and enjoyed relaxing at different resorts.
Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Charles & Sylvia Peitso, sister Dorthey Karasti, brother-in-law, Alan Karasti and his nephews, Thomas & Robert Karasti. He is survived by his spouse, Lorraine Peitso; daughter, Leah Peitso and grandpuppies, Phoebe and Baxter.
A memorial service for Richard was held on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at 11:00AM at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (805 E Division St) in River Falls, Wisconsin with visitation starting at 10:00AM. Interment will be at a later date in Lake View Cemetery in Tower, Minnesota.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
4 Comments
Dick & Lorraine visited us several times over the years- GA, NC, FL – we enjoyed the visits & the special time that Dick & Carl (my husband) could catch up through a 65 year friendship. Our thoughts are with you. Billie
My heart goes out to Lorraine and Leah. Dick and I met as boys and were life long friends. We spent many years fishing and hunting together. As men we kept in touch. I was best man at their wedding. Dick and Lorraine were helpful in my getting into college which jump started my career. Dick is one of the few people “I owe”. I will miss him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bill broke his arm so we will not be attending the service.
Keeping Lorraine and Leah in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
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