
Richard Ferdinand “Dick” Fenske, age 82, of Las Vegas, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011.
Richard was born May 23, 1929, in Milwaukee, as one of 10 children to the late Bernard and the late Mary Fenske. Dick taught chemistry at the University of Wisconsin for 30 years, and was chairman for five years. He was known as a creative and enthusiastic teacher and earned many awards for his teaching style. Although his first loves were his family and teaching, Dick also enjoyed travel, piloting, poker and golf. In addition, he was a deeply spiritual man who was involved in his church and appreciated music, photography and art.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Francesca Mary Fenske; children, Marybeth (Peter) Geissler of De Pere, Rick (Vickie) Fenske of Neenah, and John Fenske of Las Vegas; grandchildren, Richard, Rebecka and Jacob Fenske, Sarah, Rachel, Jonathan, and David Geissler and Alexia Shurmur; siblings, Mary Bechmann and Robert (Arlene) Fenske; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Joseph Fenske. Contributions in Dick’s memory may be made to your favorite charity