Richard “Dick” Kehl

Richard “Dick” Kehl, passed away on January 21, 2026, with loved ones at his side at the age 94. A Racine native through and through, he came of age in the early 1950s and served four proud years in the U.S. Navy. In 1956 he returned home with a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a spark that would carry him—and those who loved him—through a long and meaningful life.

With no college education but a clear passion for electronics, Dick worked full-time as a Radio Technician for Racine County, Wisconsin Electric Co., while raising a young family with his wife Betty and attending night school. He eventually earned his associate degree in electronics, proving that dedication and curiosity know no timetable.

A lifelong enthusiast of amateur radio, Dick’s call sign, WA9HOH, was familiar to “HAMs” near and far. He spent countless hours with his friends in the Racine amateur radio club, taking part in field days and their playful (and sometimes competitive) summer “fox hunts”, a high-tech game of hide-and-seek to track down hidden transmitters.

After Betty passed, Dick embraced his single life/freedom with gusto. He traveled the country through state and national parks with Road Scholar programs, even learning to scuba dive so he could swim with sharks in Honduras.

From 1956 to 2017, Dick independently maintained his home, yard, and gardens in Racine with care and pride. His neighbors could always count on seeing things “in good shape,” right up through his 80s. After thoughtful family discussions, he chose to move to the Congregational Home of Brookfield in 2017—and it turned out to be just the right move.

He absolutely thrived in the Congo Apartments, relishing the proximity to family and the opportunity to meet people from varied walks of life. He dove headfirst into the many activities offered there, often saying he finally had time to just “play.” Even as his body grew tired, Dick’s spirit stayed bright—he was especially proud of his “Wheelator” walker, zipping around with the glee of a teenager who just got his first car.

Dick was endlessly proud of his son Dennis (Wife Mae) Kehl, a mechanical/electrical engineer. The two could talk for hours about the latest technologies and innovations. His daughter Cindy (Husband Tom), a registered nurse, became a deeply appreciated presence in his life, particularly when Cindy helped care for his beloved wife, Betty. Later, along with Tom, Cindy provided for Dick’s own needs. Their thoughtfulness and steady presence brought him comfort and joy in his later years. Dick’s grandchildren Jeff (Katie) Harvey and Deanna (Norman) Shaw and one great grandchild Louis Harvey brought him delight and fulfillment hearing of their progress and activities.

He will be dearly missed—and fondly remembered by all who were lucky enough to know him. In place of sending flowers, please make donations to the Wisconsin Stars and Stripes Honor Flight. Dick’s Honor Flight in 2016 was a positively impactful experience for him and those that he connected with during the event.

Dick made the most of his time on earth, embracing every phase with grace and curiosity. As he told his family near the end: he was at peace with moving on. Just another example of his positive nature.

Special thanks to the staff of the Congregational Home and Legacy Hospice for their loving care of Richard.