Richard “Dick” Stanley Wysocke, 88, of La Porte, Ind., passed away Monday, June 7, 2021, at Center For Hospice, Mishawaka, Ind.
He was born May 26, 1933, in Chicago, Ill., to Stanley and Martha (Peterson) Wysocke.
Dick proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1950-1956. He was a Purple Heart and Silver Star with Valor recipient. Richard earned numerous other awards, badges and medals, including the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal with 3 Battle Stars, Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Award, Army Distinguished Service Medal, Presidential Citation, Expert Badge M-1, American Defense Ribbon, Army Commendation, Bronze Star, Combat Action, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Award, National Defense, Republic of Korea, Army Reserve Achievement, Armed Forces Reserve, Army D.S.M., and Soldiers Medal. While enlisted, he completed Jump School, Army Airborne School, Drill Sergeant School, NCO School and Chemical, Biological and Radiological School. Richard was a jump master, heavy-truck driver and motor sergeant.
After his military service, Dick became an animal warden. He enjoyed cutting grass on his tractor and taking his beloved dog for rides.
Surviving Dick are his dog, Coco; lifelong partner of 30 years, Marcia Smith of La Porte; daughter-like figures, Sandy Jackowski and Corinne Garver, both of La Porte; daughters, Margaret Whitten of Texas and Donna (Dennis) Jung of Tennessee; sons, Rick Wysocke and John Wysocke, both of Illinois; 2 grandchildren, Samantha and Michael; great-granddaughter, Mallory Jo; sister, Caroline of Illinois; cousin, Margie (Ray) Reid; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marlene Wysocke; 2 brothers; daughter, Mary Jo; aunt, Mable Mook; and many cousins.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 16, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. Burial with Full Military Honors will take place at noon Thursday, June 17, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Ill.
Memorial donations may be made to The Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Ind. 46545.
Messages of condolence may be posted below.