Richard Wickenhauser
Saint Louis | Save
Richard Wickenhauser passed away peacefully among family on April 21, 2026 at the age of 100.
Rich was the son of Joseph Wickenhauser Sr. and Margaret (Dixon) Wickenhauser of Godfrey, Illinois.
Rich is survived by his five children; Tom (Margery) Wickenhauser, Don Wickenhauser, Bob (Mary) Wickenhauser, Lynn Anson, and Bill (Carol) and his brother Jim (Linda). Rich had 17 grandchildren.
Preceding him in death besides his parents were wives Lorraine and Dottie, daughter-in law JoAnn, son-in law Don, and brothers, Joe, Ed, Gene and Jerry.
At age 11, Richard contracted scarlet fever and spent almost one year bedridden. Then at age 18 during the middle of WWII, Rich joined the Marine Corps. He was seriously wounded in combat a year later on Iwo Jima, resulting in the loss of a limb. Rich never complained about his injury, was always very proud of his service and moved on through life with courage and tenacity.
After the war, Rich transitioned to a successful business career including senior positions in the insurance industry with corporations including INA and Gallagher Agency in St Louis. Rich worked through his 70's and then upon retirement moved back to Alton. After several years of independent living, he moved into a retirement community where he embraced a new chapter in his life, making more friends along the way.
Rich was an avid outdoor sportsman including every type of hunting, fishing and sport shooting. Rich was a competitive shooter at his gun club where he developed many lasting friendships.
Rich was an active donor to many charitable organizations. Rich will be remembered for his humility, sense of humor, persistence, and positive attitude.
Rich lived a long, fulfilling life and will be greatly missed by many.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 4:00 pm until the time of Vigil Service at 5:30 pm and visitation will continue until 7:00 pm at Elias, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Godfrey, IL.
Mass of Celebration will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 10:00 am at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, Godfrey, IL.
Memorials can be made to St. Ambrose Catholic Church or the charity of one’s choice in lieu of flowers.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
