Richard A. Miske

Richard A. Miske, age 82 of Rockford, MN passed away peacefully on January 6, 2022, with his loving wife by his side. Despite going to great lengths to protect himself, Richard tested positive for COVID-19 in August. He fought valiantly for many months, but his road to recovery was ultimately derailed by complications.

Richard was born on February 24, 1939 in New Paltz, NY, the son of Frank Sr. and Mary Miske.  From the age of 9 years he was raised in Northeast Minneapolis where he had a paper route and loved the game of hockey.  He graduated from Minneapolis Vocational High School, and served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War.  On October 5, 1968 Richard and Carolyn Herrmann were united in marriage.   Together they were blessed with two children Jodie and Ryan, in addition to his two children Jeanine and Rick.  In 1969 Richard, along with the support of his wife, was the co-founder, co-owner, and operator of Custom Business Forms for 34 years.

Richard lived a rich and full life.  Busy in his early years, Richard treasured his time coaching youth hockey teams and participating in Boy Scout adventures.  One of Richard’s dreams was realized in owning and working a hobby farm with cattle, field work, and bunnies.  He relished any opportunity to dance to polka music and play his concertina.

In retirement Richard and Carolyn enjoyed traveling, including to Hawaii, Alaska, the Grand Tetons, Mt. Rushmore, a Disney Cruise, Branson, Kohler Spa, and their annual winter trips to Florida.  He also enjoyed playing a competitive game of 500 with friends, and meeting his granddaughters for 49ers at the Original Pancake House.  His laughter will be a constant reminder of all the things he held dear – his family, friends, good conversation, and his favorite foods.

Always with a cup of coffee in hand, Richard will forever be known for his quick wit, spirited sense of humor, and big heart.   Richard most enjoyed making people feel special, whether it be his comfort in starting a conversation with anyone he met, or giving generously.  Richard is dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his best friend and wife of 53 years, Carolyn Miske, children: Jodie (Matt) Greer, Ryan Miske, Jeanine (Roger) Faue, and Rick Miske, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings: Jeanette Schneider and Frank Miske Jr., sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Joyce (John) Miller, Tom (Diane) Herrmann, Gary (Barb) Herrmann, Bonnie (Richard) Schaefer, Dona Herrmann, Cindy (Wayne) Hillstrom, and Daniel Herrmann, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Preceded in death by his parents: Frank Sr. and Mary Miske, father-in-law and mother-in-law: DeLloyd and Gloria Herrmann, sister: Delores, and brother-in-laws: Randy Herrmann, Walter Miskowiec, Tom Schneider, and sister-in-law: Mary Jo Miske.

A memorial service for Richard will be held on Friday, June 24th, 11 AM with visitation starting at 10 AM at Our Father's Lutheran Church, 3903 Gilbert Avenue SE, Rockford, MN 55373.

Private interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the family for further distribution to some of Richard’s favorite charities.