April 11, 1958 – December 4, 2024
Funeral Mass for Dick will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Divine Mercy Parish – St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Joseph. Burial will be held in St. Benedict Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Oakcrest Funeral Services in Algona.
Richard John Kutschara was born April 11, 1958 at St. Ann’s Hospital in Algona; son of Henry “Bud” and Barbara “Bobbie” (Froehlich) Kutschara. Dick grew up in the St. Joseph area where he remained throughout his life. He graduated from Bishop Garrigan High School in 1976 and went on to dedicate his life to farming.
In 1981, Dick was united in marriage to Judy Malkmus. Together, they raised a family and shared many years of companionship. Although they were later divorced in 2014, Dick and Judy remained good friends.
In addition to farming, Dick worked alongside his brother-in-law, Jerry Kayser, driving truck, worked at the Bode Elevator from 1982 until 2010, and spent a year at Dump-it before finding his current role at Jack’s OK Tire Service.
Dick’s family was the cornerstone of his life. His grandkids, in particular, were his greatest joy. He never missed a chance to attend their activities, and they always knew where to find him—at Grandpa Dick’s truck, enjoying gum and Tootsie Pop suckers. Dick was known for his love of history, particularly WWII, and his passion for sports. A fan of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs, he enjoyed watching games and talking sports with his loved ones. Dick was often affectionately called “Kutch” by those who knew him best. Dick had a passion for many things, but one of his greatest joys was playing pool, notably with his dear friend, Jimmy Thilges.
He also found great joy in simple pleasures—driving cattle, playing the “Battleship” game on his Super Nintendo, and, of course, his favorite “old man breakfast” at AK’s Chrome Kitchen at 7 A.M. on Sundays. Dick cherished spending time with his family and was especially fond of playing cards with them.
The Reding family was like a second family to Dick. He treasured their bond, having grown up together and enjoyed many years of farming side by side.
Dick died Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at the age of 66.
He is survived by his children, Jessie (Brandon) Ree of Algona, Adam (Sheri) Kutschara of Algona, Levi (Brittany) Kutschara of Algona; grandchildren, Michael, Laura, Jayden, Kimber, Axel, Hurley, Ezra, Lexi, Laci, Layni; mother, Bobbie Kutschara of West Bend; sister, Kay (Ron) Brown of West Bend and their family; former wife, Judy Kutschara; and his dear friends, the Reding family.
Preceding him in death is his father, Henry “Bud” Kutschara on July 4, 1994.
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