Richard Harold Lentz, 87, passed away on July 24, 2026, at Rainbow Hospice in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and devotion to his family.

Richard was born on January 25, 1939, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Harold and Murtie (Riggs) Lentz. He graduated from Whitewater City High School in 1956 and dedicated 40 years of his career to the construction industry, working for Magill Construction in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Richard was known for his kindness, generosity, and tireless work ethic. Whether on the job or at home, he was always building, repairing, or improving something, taking great pride in work done well.

In 1959, Richard married the love of his life, Donna (Turner) Lentz. Together, they built a life filled with love, hard work, and devotion to family, raising two children and sharing 66 wonderful years of marriage. For nearly 60 years, they made their home outside Hebron, where Richard poured countless hours into caring for the property and completing several additions with his own hands. It was a place that reflected his pride, craftsmanship, and love for his family.

He is survived by his children, Bill (Sandy) Lentz and Laurie (Tim) Kerr; his grandchildren, Mark (Elizabeth) Lentz, Megan (Jim) Vergenz, and Bradley Kerr; and his beloved great-grandchildren, Genesis, Mark Jr., Matthew, Gracelyn, and Malachi Lentz, and Jacob, Maxx, and Charlotte Vergenz. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss his kind heart and steady presence.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna, and his sister, Harriet Jacobs.

Richard rarely sat still. When he wasn’t building or fixing something, he could often be found deer hunting, fishing, tending his garden, bowling, playing cards with family and friends, or traveling with Donna. He found joy in simple pleasures and in time spent with the people he loved.

The measure of Richard’s life was not only in what he built with his hands, but in the love, laughter, and strength he gave to those around him. His kind nature, relentless spirit, and ceaseless generosity will be dearly missed but remembered with deep love and gratitude.

Memorial visitation to be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St., Whitewater, WI 53190, from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM. Memorial service to begin at 12:00 PM. Private family inurnment to take place.

Nitardy Funeral Home of Whitewater is proudly serving the family. For online condolences, please visit www.nitardyfuneralhome.com.