Richard Peter Waldera, age 82, of Taylor, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2017 in the Mayo Clinic Health System in LaCrosse, surrounded by his loving family.

Richard was born on March 17, 1934 in Arcadia to Michael and Pauline (Lisowski) Waldera. He married Rowene Lee on April 18, 1964 in Saint Ansgar's Catholic Church in Blair, the first couple to be married there.

Richard served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. He owned and operated Dick's Bar in Taylor from 1963 until 1995. Richard also was employed as a civilian employee at Fort McCoy for 32 years until his retirement in 1995.

Richard enjoyed attending all sporting events his grandchildren participated in. He also enjoyed many years of camping with family and friends.

Richard was a charter lifetime member of Saint Ansgar's Catholic Church in Blair and a lifetime member of the VFW Post #8494 in Alma Center. He served as a member of the Taylor Volunteer Fire Department and was a charter member of Taylor Lions Club.

Richard is survived by his wife, Rowene; three children, Brian (Lynn) Waldera of De Forest, Tarry (Dawn) Waldera of Blair and Kelly (Dave) Flick of Taylor; seven grandchildren, Jeffrey (friend, Breanna)) Klevgard, Benjamin (friend, Chad) Waldera, Rachael (friend, Joshua) Klevgard, Caleb, Cody, Josie and Jessica Waldera; a sister, Delores (Bernie) Kulig of Independence; a brother, Larry Waldera of Black River Falls; 47 nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a son, Jody Lee Waldera; two sisters, Adeline (Edwin) Slaby and Evelyn (Gerald) Gamroth; seven brothers, Apolinary, Daniel, Everett, Roland, Adrian, Lynus and Michael Waldera.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in Saint Ansgar's Catholic Church in Blair. Father Woodrow Pace will officiate. Military rites will be conducted by the VFW Post #8494 of Alma Center.

Visitation will be Wednesday, January 11, 2017 from 4-8 p.m. in the Jack Funeral Home in Blair where a Christian prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. followed by a parish rosary. Friends may also call one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.