Richard J. Lawe of Keshena, WI passed at home surrounded by his family on January 20, 2018. Richard was born in Neopit at this Grandpa Longley's home on January 20, 1947. Richard was raised by his parents, John and Julie (Aaron) Lawe.
After graduating from high school, Class of 1966, Richard was inducted into the U.S. Army, where he proudly served his country. All of his training was at Fort Hood, Texas. In September of 1967, Richard was assigned to the 11th Calvary, 1st Squadron, B Troop, 3rd Platoon and served in Vietnam. During the 1968 TET Offensive, Richard's platoon defended Long Binh, Bien Hoa and Saigon, where he sustained a wound to his head and received a purple heart as a result of his injuries. Richard was honorably discharged from the Army in September 1968.
Richard married Patricia Waukechon in October 1970, and they resided in Keshena all their married life. He worked for the Menominee County Highway Department, was a sprinkler fitter for Local 699, the Menominee Tribal Utility Sewer and Water Department, Minnesota rural Water Association and WI Community Association working with all 11 tribes of Wisconsin.
Richard enjoyed hunting, cutting wood, spending time in the woods and with his family.
Richard is survived by: his wife, Trish of 47 years; two daughters, Shawn Lawe and Christie (Colin) Isom and grandson, Kurtis Lawe; son, Anthony (Michelle) Habeck and granddaughter Kaitlynn of Menasha; one brother-in-law, Joseph "Toman" Boivin.
He was preceded in death by his parents and six brothers and sisters.
A memorial service for Richard will be held at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at Swedberg Funeral Home in Shawano followed by Military Honors conducted by the Veterans of the Menominee Nation. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Wednesday from 1:00 pm until the time of the service.
The family wishes to thank everyone who supported them.
