Obituary for Richard "Dick" Wardwell

Dick was born on February 5, 1936, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where he grew up and attended Central High School, graduating with the class of 1954. Following his high school years, he pursued college coursework and proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

On August 4, 1962, Dick married the love of his life, Sandra Schild of West Salem, Wisconsin. Together, they shared a beautiful marriage that spanned 58 years. They raised their family in Mauston, Wisconsin, where Dick dedicated the majority of his career to managing a local grocery store. Later in life, their journey took them to Westby, Wisconsin, before they eventually downsized and settled in Holmen in 2019.

Dick possessed a genuine love for people and never met a stranger. An outdoor enthusiast and sports fan, he was an avid hunter, loved spending days on the golf course, and closely followed basketball and football. He will be most remembered for his unwavering positive outlook, his happy disposition, and his remarkably good nature.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra; his parents, Maurice and Violet (Prise) Wardwell; and his sister, Patricia Jenks. He is survived by his loving children, Michael Wardwell (wife Joani) and Lisa Hesch (husband Mike); four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

A visitation and funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at North Presbyterian Church (1327 N. Salem Rd., La Crosse, WI). Family and friends are welcome for the visitation beginning at 11:30 a.m., with the funeral service to follow at 12:30 p.m. A luncheon will be hosted at the church immediately following the service. Pastor Scott Skogen will preside.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be directed to the Holmen Area Community Center, where Dick deeply enjoyed finding a welcoming community of friends in recent years. Donations can be made securely online at the Holmen Area Community Center Donation Page, or mailed directly to: Holmen Area Community Center, 600 N. Holmen Drive, Holmen, WI 54636.

Online condolences can be left for the family on this site.