Richard D. “Dick” Doelz, 89, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died on Thursday, September 26, 2024. Dick was born on May 27, 1935, in Platteville, Wisconsin, son of John “Jack” and Ella (Parrish) Doelz. Dick was united in marriage to Joyce Specht on May 26, 1956, at First English Lutheran Church, Platteville.

Dick grew up farming in Platteville Township. Dick graduated from Platteville High School and served in the Wisconsin National Guard “Red Arrow” from September 14, 1953, to September 13, 1961. Dick along with his brother-in-law, Cecil Specht, owned and operated Specht & Doelz Garbage Truck, “where it was the only truck with one Specht on it”. He worked at Udelhoven Garage and from 1971 to 2013 he worked at Faherty's Inc as a sanitation service driver. While on his routes he was known to carry a treat for the dogs he would encounter. Dick enjoyed tinkering and working on trucks and cars. He enjoyed camping, traveling. Dick was a member of the Southwest Wisconsin Auto Club.

Dick is survived by his wife, Joyce; two sons, David and Daniel (Deb) Doelz; two grandsons, Jeffrey (Jackie) Doelz and their children, Parker, Blake and Jordynn; Jason (Kelly) Doelz and their children, Mary and Connor; brother-in-law, Arkie Specht and his faithful Pomeranian companion, Sandy, that he took on car rides everyday. Dick was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 AM, Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Platteville, where military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post 42 and VFW Post 5274. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Online Condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com.

Richard Doelz

May 27, 1935 - September 26, 2024

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