Dick Stemke

Dick Stemke July 4, 1950 to July 21, 2023.

Earth lost an angel, but heaven gained a master outdoorsman and lover. The Stemke family is saddened to announce the passing of Dick Stemke who lost his lengthy battle with shingles on July 21, 2023.

After 26 confirmed Viet Cong kills Dick returned to his beloved Minocqua to start a family with his wife Ethel. Dick was a man with no boundaries who fathered many children in and out of wedlock, all of which he and Ethel loved. 

Dick Stemke had a passion for the “Bang Bang” as he called it off the local Minocqua bowling scene. After bowling an inconceivable 242 with a 10 lb. house ball Dick considered going pro but before these dreams could be realized he fell in love with musky fishing. In the fall of 1983, Dick created the Stemke-Tail which he used to subdue not one but two 55-inch muskies that year from Little Bearskin Lake in Oneida County. Both mounts will be sold with the estate.

A celebration of life was held at the public boat launch of Little Bearskin lake on Wednesday July 26 where Dick’s ashes were scattered. In lieu of flowers Dick’s family asks that well wishers “Drink a Pepsi” for Dick.

Dick is survived by his wife Ethel Stemke and his live-in girlfriend Crystal and numerous children.