Richard Jon Hoesterman

All who knew Dr. Richard Hoesterman would agree that he truly understood the secret to a life well lived. His loving care of others reflected a selfless spirit, and he touched the hearts of many around him with his loyalty and positivity each and every day. Richard was deeply devoted to his loved ones, and he cherished every moment spent with family and friends. Deeply loved, he will be forever missed.

For the first half of the 1940s, the eyes of our nation were focused overseas as WWII raged on. Countless young servicemen and women had answered the call to serve, and those who remained stateside became familiar with rationing on several common goods. It was just prior to the war’s end in 1945 that Hans R. and Laverne I. (Pape) Hoesterman were pleased to announce the birth of the baby boy they named Richard Jon on February 7, 1945, at Milwaukee Lutheran Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Growing up, Richard was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. He was raised in Whitefish Bay and Glendale, alongside his older brother, Kurt. Richard’s father supported the family by working in men’s retail while his mother remained home as a homemaker. Both of his parents taught him the importance of hard work and serving others. Richard loved playing baseball in his free time, and he took every opportunity to go fishing with his father. Christmas was always his favorite holiday. Throughout high school, Richard participated in several different sports including basketball and tennis, and he was also a skilled runner and golfer. After graduating from high school, he went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison for two years, From there he attended the Marquette University Dental School for four years, finally graduating as a dentist.

Richard followed the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, earning the rank of captain. In total he served from 1969 to 1971 in the Army Dental Corp in San Antonio, Texas. Richard excelled in dental work, and he would still find the free time to play tennis and go fishing.

New and exciting changes were on the horizon for Richard when he met the love of his life. Her name was Janis Mercil, and the two met at the Left Guard Dance Club in 1973. Their romance began, and it didn’t take long for both to realize that they were made for each other. Richard and Janis were married May 17, 1975. Although their marriage ended in divorce after 25 years, they later reunited and were married for a second time, this time on July 7, 2007.

Of all the things that Richard treasured, he valued his family above all else. He was overjoyed to become a father in 1979, and throughout his entire life he considered himself blessed to have his daughter Betsy. Richard’s family expanded to welcome Betsy’s husband, Dan Sauer, on July 4, 2015. Later their family was thrilled to welcome the couple’s dog, Teddy, who became one of Richard’s best friends and his trusty fishing buddy.

Throughout much of his life, Richard ran the dental practice of Ray Kaddatz in Glendale, Wisconsin, which he took over in 1971 after leaving the military. He retired from the practice in 2008. Their retirement years allowed Richard and Janis to enjoy many vacations. They went “condo hopping” for several weeks each year from 2013 to 2016. Richard and Janis also traveled the country, making their way from the West to East Coast. Door County, Wisconsin, and Cisco Chain, Big Lake were favorite vacation spots. Richard enjoyed fishing and boating, even planning to go while he was ill. Christmas remained his favorite holiday as it was always a time to be with the ones he loved. Richard enjoyed all kinds of wildlife, and he especially liked going to the Northwoods whenever he could. He and Betsy’s dog Teddy would often visit Coal Dock Park before doing yard work, which Richard also enjoyed. He loved antiques and was nostalgic about times of the past. While Richard was battling illness, he became very strong in his faith. He grew closer to Jesus and found comfort in his faith. His favorite evangelists included Rev. Jonathan Maki and Rev. Mike Easter. Richard was known for placing his trust in God and focusing on living each day the fullest, saying, “Do not fear what you cannot control….rather live your life as if nothing is wrong with you!”

As his family and friends can attest, Dr. Richard Hoesterman had an insatiable zest for life that was contagious to all who were near. He was a devoted father and took his responsibilities as a family man to heart. Even when engaged in the fight for his life, Richard did not lose hope. He always kept a positive outlook on life and took every chance to enjoy the blessings he had been given. Though he will be dearly missed, Richard leaves behind a priceless legacy that his family will carry on proudly in his footsteps.

Dr. Richard Jon Hoesterman D.D.S., entered into his rest January 19, 2021 at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Janis R. Hoesterman. Cherished father of Betsy (Dan) Sauer. Dear brother of Kurt (Linda) Hoesterman. Brother-in-law of William R. (Dona) Mercil. Further survived by his grand-dog “Teddy”, other relatives and friends.

Visitation, Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at Christian Life Church 2909 W. Mequon Road, Mequon, WI 53092 from 11:00 AM until time of the Funeral Service at 12:00 PM.

Interment at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, WI