Richard Lee Boettcher was a Valentine's baby in 1944. He was raised by his mom Laverne in Appleton, WI. Richard was a Boy Scout and achieved the rank of Eagle. He loved making and building things, fixing things, and seeing how the mechanics of it all came together.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Signal Corps setting up Tropospheric Scatter Communications. After being discharged he did the same type of work for Philco Ford setting up communications for foreign governments and militaries across the globe. It was traveling the world that brought him to his love Myong, whom he met in Korea and married on December 23rd, 1972.

After getting married he settled down to have a family, he continued to work in a field he enjoyed as a millwright at the Appleton Papers Combined Locks Mill. His fondness for a certain morning brew earned him the nickname "Mr. Coffee," a moniker he never failed to live up to. He continued to make and build things for the rest of his life. He enjoyed woodworking, leatherworking, and ham radio, perfecting his skills through challenging projects.

Richard and Myong had one son William. Quiet outdoor activities were well suited for these guys' similar personalities. They enjoyed many hours of hunting and fishing together. Richard was proud to be the Scoutmaster for Troop 73 when William followed him in his scouting footsteps. After retirement from the Locks Mill, Richard and Myong enjoyed many happy years together until she passed away this summer.Richard joined her in heaven on December 1st. He is survived by his son William and grandson Patrick and their spouses. His family loves and misses him very much.

A service for Richard will be held at Noon on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021, at Brettschneider-Trettin-Nickel Funeral Chapel with Military Honors to follow. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of service.