In memory of Richard Orlo Roth – Loving dad, caring husband and teacher to all.
Born to the Heavenlies on May 11, 2023 at age 98, surrounded by his daughter and dear friends in his home, as he so wished.
Survived by his wife Marilyn (a fellow teacher) of 56 years of marriage, daughter Amie, brother Don (wife Alice and their extended family), and brother Greg (wife Izzy), and cherished niece Cherrie, husband EJ and children Sam, Peter and Lilly. Preceded in death by his dad Alexander and mom Christine, brother Al, and many others that were near and dear to him through teaching, handball, golf, skiing, cards or anything else along the way.
Richard was affectionately known as Rich, Sonny, Dick, Dickie Bird, D.R., Ricardo, Tricky Dick, and many others. (He, in turn, had a nickname for everyone.) He was born on November 28, 1924, in the midst of the Great Depression and was the second oldest of five boys. He competed in track and gymnastics in high school.
Dick enlisted in the army and volunteered to be a paratrooper, to which he was assigned the WWII 101st Airborne, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment. He ended up being the only private in a company of higher ranking officers. While overseas, he was able to attend a USO show by his favorite, Frank Sinatra. He suffered a shrapnel wound in Italy and was honorably discharged in 1946.
From there, he graduated teachers college and taught 6th grade at Fisher School in Wauwatosa for the next 36 years where he was considered a favorite teacher amongst many of his students. He also held a part time job in security at Kohl’s warehouse where he worked until he was in his eighties, and had many friends and great experiences there.
He was an accomplished handball player, winning multiple championships and accredited with furthering the sport amongst youth, with a nod to the Selestow family and his good friend Tony.
He also taught golf during his summers at Storms Golf Range, and in his retirement unofficially taught at Moor Downs G.C. practice range. It was there he shared the love of the game with countless many, including his protégé Dale Paluszcyk, who remained a close friend for years.
He will be missed by so many, especially his daughter, the ‘apple of his eye’.
Can’t wait to walk in the sun with you again, Dad.
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