Richard Donald Paschke

Richard D. Paschke, age 92, a lifelong resident of the Blue Earth community, died April 9, 2020 from complications from a stroke.

Richard was born October 30, 1927 to Fred and Emma (Wehsener) Paschke. He graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1945 and attended the University of Minnesota School of Agriculture. Richard returned home after his schooling, farmed with his father until his father’s death and continued running the dairy farm until his retirement in 1991.

He was a faithful member of Hope United Methodist Church (formerly Salem Evangelical United Brethren and Salem United Methodist Church). Throughout the years he served in many capacities including being a member of the trustees committee and chairman of the finance committee. Growing up he was an active member of the JoDavis 4-H Club and as an adult he was involved in the rural community as a member of the Farm Bureau, Blue Earth Jaycees, the Dairy Herd Improvement organization and the Crop Improvement Organization. Always a supporter of all the local sports, the Blue Earth Area Buccaneers chose Richard to receive their Fan-of-the Year award for the 2012-2013 year.

Richard was the Paschke family historian, keeping pictures, papers and records dating to when his great-grandfather immigrated to the United States from the Province of Posen, Germany.

He is survived by his five nephews; Chuck (Katherine), Dennis, Morris (Sher) and Tom Paschke, Paul (Ann) Turbiville, three nieces; Leslie Jose, Joyce (David) Jose, Susan (Gene) Bassett, 15 great nephews and nieces and 27 great-great nephews and nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents, sisters Verna Paschke and Alice Turbiville and brothers Orval and Lester.

A private family graveside service will be held Friday. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Hope United Methodist Church. Memorial gifts in Richards name to Hope UMC would be greatly appreciated.