Richard “Dick” Paul Oelfke

Obituary

Richard “Dick” Paul Oelfke was born on November 12, 1933, in Hamburg, Minnesota. He was the son of Paul and Gertrude (Schloendorf) Oelfke. Richard was baptized as an infant on November 26, 1933 by Rev. Heinrich J. Bouman and was later confirmed in his faith as a youth on March 21, 1948, by Rev. Louis T. Wohlfeil both at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hamburg, Minnesota.  His confirmation verse was Revelation 3:11.  He received his education in Norwood Young America, Minnesota, graduating with the Central High School Class of 1952.  Richard entered active military service in the United States Army in February of 1957, and served his country in in Illinois and Texas.  He received an Honorable Discharge in 1959. 

On July 9, 1955, Richard was united in marriage to Lila Wegner, the love of his life, by Rev. Kirsch at Peace Lutheran Church in Hutchinson, Minnesota.  Richard and Lila made their home on the family farm in Hamburg, Minnesota.  Their marriage was blessed with three children, Paula, Steven and Beth.  Richard and Lila shared over 65 years of marriage.

Richard was a dedicated and hardworking farmer on both a dairy and crop farm.  He was so proud of his beautiful registered Holsteins (black & white).  Richard showed cattle at many fairs and state fairs winning many trophies including grand champions.  Won best three female, bred and owned by Exhibitor at the state fair many times.  He was the President of Holstein Association and the FFA.  Richard was a lifelong and faithful member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Hamburg.  As his ministry to the church, he served as a head usher.  Richard also sang in a Quartet. 

Richard had a good way of making people laugh when they were down.  He enjoyed reading, fishing and watching all sports but mainly football.  Richard treasured the time spent with his family especially his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Richard passed away on Sunday, May 9, 2021, at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, Minnesota, at the age of 87 years, 5 months, 27 days.

Richard is survived by his:
Wife, Lila Oelfke of Hamburg, MN;
Children, Steven Oelfke and his wife, Jeanne, of Hamburg, MN,
Beth Schwecke and her husband, Marc, of Gibbon, MN;
Grandchildren,  Daniel Oelfke of Hamburg, MN,
Phillip Oelfke and his wife, Leah, of Omaha, NE,
Timothy Oelfke and his wife, Hillary, of Jacksonville, NC,
Sara Hahn and her husband, Isaac, of Winthrop, MN,
Kari Mack and her husband, Brent, of Redwood Falls, MN;
Great Grandchildren, Ezekiel Oelfke, Simon Oelfke, Roman Oelfke, Abigail Oelfke, Luke Oelfke, Avery Hahn, Lewis Hahn, Crosby Hahn, Lucy Hahn, Birdie Mack;
Sister, Carol O’Brien of FL;
Nephews, Nieces, Other relatives and many friends.

Dick was preceded in death by his Parents, Paul and Gertrude Oelfke; Daughter, Paula Oelfke; Grandson, Andrew Oelfke.