Dick Schaetz

Richard “Dick” Bernard Schaetz, 90, of Kohler, passed away peacefully at Sheboygan Senior Community on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.  

Dick was born on July 9, 1933, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Edna (Kane) Schaetz. He graduated from Sheboygan Falls High School in 1951 and continued his studies at the University of Wisconsin Madison, graduating in 1956 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Dick was united in marriage to the love of his life, Dorothy (Franzen) on November 16, 1957, in Plymouth, WI.  

Dick served in the US Navy as a lab design researcher, later working for J.S. Richardson and Kohler Company in various mechanical engineering roles in the engine division. He retired from Kohler Company after 31 years of dedicated employment. Dick and Dorothy enjoyed traveling, spending many winter months in Texas. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing and time spent at the family cottage he and his family built. Dick was a member of the Wisconsin Professional Engineers and the Society of Auto Engineers. 

Above all, he cherished spending time with his family and friends. He was an important mentor and friend to many and will be forever cherished.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Dorothy; children; Scott (Kathy) Schaetz of Plymouth, Todd (Michele) Schaetz of Town of Lyndon, Lori (Don) Kochan of Cleveland, Ohio, Kelly (Jim) Horan of Waukesha; 10 grandchildren; Matthew Schaetz, Molly (Matthew) Ollmann, Andy (Jenn) Kochan, Katie (Andrew) Small, Patrick Kochan, Erin (Kevin) Werner, J.T. Schaetz, Adam (Katy) Horan, Joey Horan, Libby Horan, and 5 great-grandchildren, Bennett Ollmann, Audrey Kochan, Fiona Small, Penelope Werner, R.J. Horan; and two sisters-in-law, Marilyn Schaetz, Doreen Schaetz; brother-in-law, David (Cassy) Franzen.  He is further survived by his nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.   

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Gerald Schaetz, Donald (Janice) Schaetz, Daniel Schaetz, Joanne (William) Kluth; and niece, Tanya Conrad.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John the Evangelist Church in Kohler on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 11:30 am. Relatives and friends may greet the family at church from 9:30 am until the time of mass at 11:30 am. Inurnment will take place at Woodland Cemetery in Kohler. 

Memorial contributions can be made in Dick’s name.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Sheboygan Senior Community, Dr. Barnes, Dr. Coulis, and Dr. Detrana for their kind and compassionate care.

The Staff of Wenig Funeral Homes is caring for the family. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for more information and online condolences.