Richard C. Engeleiter, 90, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed peacefully on September 29, 2026. He was born on November 26, 1935, in the Town of Addison, Wisconsin, to Roman and Hilda Engeleiter. He graduated from Slinger High School and married his high school sweetheart, Bernie Schulze, on August 4, 1956. Together, they celebrated 67 years of cherished marriage prior to her passing in 2023.

Richard was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He and Bernie spent many years taking their four grandchildren camping, creating memories that would last a lifetime. There wasn't anything Richard couldn't build or fix. When his grandchildren were born, he made an oak cradle for each family. As they grew older, he made rocking horses and later trunks for them. He was involved with Habitat for Humanity for many years and would bring things home to turn into beautiful cabinets and other furniture. Many of his woodworking projects and pieces of furniture remain treasured keepsakes that will be passed down for generations.

Richard and Bernie also enjoyed traveling, including a trip to Germany to attend the wedding of their special daughter, Rosie. Rosie was a foreign exchange student who became a member of the family. They also shared a love of music and dancing that began with the “Harmoneers,” a band Richard started with his sister, Carol.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Cathy Watson (Mike) of Appleton and Gail Huberty (David) of Waupaca; his special daughter, Rosie (Manfred) of Germany; his sisters, Carol Clausing of Appleton and Donna Matter of West Bend; his grandchildren, Dawn Watson of Appleton, Nicole Watson (partner Matt Ungerman) of Milwaukee, Heather Bizak (Mike) of Omaha, Phillip Huberty of Appleton, and his special granddaughter, Tanja, of Germany.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bernie, and his parents, Roman and Hilda Engeleiter.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church (WELS), 530 W. Parkway Blvd., Appleton, Wisconsin. A service will follow at 2:00 p.m.

Richard truly loved his wife and missed her dearly. We are comforted in knowing they are now together forever. His legacy of love will live on through the many memories shared with him, keeping his spirit with us always.

Special thanks to Willow Assisted Living for the wonderful care Richard received and to the staff who made him feel like family. The family would also like to thank Compassus Hospice, especially Chris, for the support and care they provided.