Richard E. Funnell

Richard Eugene Funnell, age 88 of Larsen, WI is finally home with Jesus as of October 16, 2023.  He was born on May 2^nd, 1935 in Clinton, IA and adopted by his parents, Earl and Gertrude (Farwell) Funnell.  After graduating from Clinton High School, he enlisted in the Air Force and served for 25 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1980.  During his service, he also acquired the skills to become a Computer Technician and Computer Instructor.  Richard married the love of his life, Carole Close in Freeport, IL in September of 1968 and they were together for over 55 years. 

Richard was a real Renaissance man with many different hobbies and interests.  He was among the crew who built the first computer when it was implemented in Madison and, despite being partially colorblind, built his first color TV with the assistance of his wife, Carole with a DIY kit that was sent to their house.  Richard spent most of his free time maintaining his lawn and his garden – both of which he was very proud of.  He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing piano, and cooking with Carole.  Richard loved his Lord and Savior and shared his Christian faith with others – even those in prison – through the power of his newsletters and his poetry.  More than anything, though, he loved his family and spent as much time as he could with each and every one of them. 

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Gertrude; his sisters, Crystal (Robert) and Phyllis (Frank); and his siblings-in-law, Harold (Betty), Melvin (Beverly), Leonard (Joyce), and Angeline (Dennis). 

Richard is survived by his wife, Carole; his sister-in-law, Darla; his goddaughter, Heather (Curt); Carole’s godson, Christopher; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends. 

A memorial visitation will be held for Richard from 9-11 AM on Saturday, October 28 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 407 Oak St, Neenah, WI 54956 with a memorial service to follow at 11 AM.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to ThedaCare At Home Hospice – a wonderful organization who helped Richard through some of the toughest times and was there with him to the end. 

Richard’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the compassionate nurses and doctors at ThedaCare Hospice for all the professional care shown to Richard and his family. 

“Dear friends, repent today for tomorrow may be one day too late” – Richard.