Olson Burke-Sullivan Funeral And Cremation Center

Obituary Detail

May 31, 1944 January 08, 2022
May 31, 1944 -- January 08, 2022

Renate Richter, Age:77

Renate Richter

May 31, 1944-January 8, 2022

 

Renate Richter, nee Alt, age 77, passed unexpectedly on January 8, 2022.  Beloved wife of Helmut for 57 years; cherished mother of Sonia Richter (Karl Kaufmann) and Erika Hanisch (late Bill); devoted grandmother of Nick and Joe; dear sister of the late Rudolf Alt (Maria) and Emilie Hammond (Bob); loving aunt to her nieces and nephews; good friend to many.

 

Renate was born in Kikinda, Yugoslavia.  Her parents, Alois & Elizabeth, emigrated to the United States with their family when she was 8 years old.  It was quite the adjustment for a young girl who spoke no English and wore braids and orthopedic shoes, unlike all of her new classmates.  She hated being different than the other kids.  She persevered, learned English and began to make friends in her new home.  She graduated from Lakeview High School in 1962 and contributed to the workforce in various clerical positions over the years.  

 

Her father and brother were active with the Fichte Rams Soccer Club.  It was through the Fichte that Renate & Helmut met.  They made life-long friends at the Fichte and have remained in touch with them.  She always looked forward to Club activities and a chance to chat with the ladies.  

 

Helmut was drafted into the Army and she waited for him until his return.  They married in 1964 and Sonia was born the following year.  Erika was born 2 years later.

 

Life was very busy with 2 small children and a job.  And no car.  She had to ride her bicycle to buy groceries.  One kid in a basket in the front; one in a seat in the back and groceries hanging on the handlebars.  When she couldn’t take it anymore, she enlisted the neighbor next door to teach her how to drive.  Again, she persevered, and eventually talked Helmut into getting her a car of her own.  She loved driving and was always happy to hop in the car and go for a spin.

 

The years passed quickly.  The girls grew up, got married, moved out.  Upon retirement, she spent time doing the things she loved most:  a bit of traveling with Helmut, meeting the girls for a night out, doting on her grandchildren, cuddling with her beloved pets, watching movies on TV.       

 

We will miss her embracing arms, her loving heart, her wicked sense of humor, and the way she swore like a sailor.  We will miss everything about her.  

 

She will always remain in our thoughts, our hearts, and be forever loved.