Richard Ziemke
Richard Ziemke , Age 63
Richard Ziemke, age 63, died on Thursday, September 11, 2025 after a battle with cancer. He was born May 24, 1962 in Fort Bragg, NC to Donald and Dorothy (Jensen) Ziemke, while his father was in the reserves. At seven weeks old, they came home to continue farming.
He graduated from Portage High School in 1980. After graduation he farmed with his parents, owning his first calf at the age of 10 and becoming herdsman at 12. He continued farming until they sold out in 1996. He then started bartending at various bars, including Thunderbird Lanes when he was the cocktail waiter for the Ladies Commercial Bowling League for 16 years. Finally working at River's Edge Pub & Grub for 25 and a half years before retiring in March of 2024.
He loved playing euchre, singing karaoke, was a league bowler for 42 years, showing cattle and emceeing cattle shows. Besides his family, the love of his life was the Columbia County Fair, which he was part of for over 50 years; 17 years on the Fair Board including being the Vice President.
He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Ziemke of Baraboo; his brother, Dennis (Lisa Henke) Ziemke of Baraboo; nieces and nephews, Jeremy (Stephanie) Ziemke of Kendall, John (Kimber) Ziemke and their son Wesley all of rural Baraboo, Jenna Ziemke of Baraboo, Forest (Heather Key) Henke of Baraboo; special friends, Julie Swan of Pardeeville and Peggy Loveless Sosinsky of Montello; as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and many, many friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Ziemke; sister-in-law, Sherrie Ziemke; aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home in Baraboo. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow in Caledonia German Methodist Cemetery.
My last wish is for everyone:
Live a happy and healthy life
Live every day to the fullest because you don’t know what can happen
Don’t worry about me: I’m no longer in pain
I love you all!!!
Condolences
Tara Greenwood September 12, 2025
Friend Baraboo
Rest easy my friend. Our love for the fair and taking care of your hair brought us together. I'm glad you are no longer in pain. My heart is sad but, I know you are in a better place and shining down on all of us! The world was a better place with you in it! Fly high and may you always have high lights in heaven!
Betty krueger September 12, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
R I P Rich. You were a nice guy n enjoyed having had you as renter the yrs you stayed here. I'll always remember your smiles n singing.
STEVEN Male HAMILTON September 12, 2025
FRIEND Baraboo , Wisconsin
Richard was a special person; I will remember his laughter and joy for other people's successes. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Ruth Kaczmarek September 12, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
You have my condolences. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.