Remembering Ed Richter
Ed Richter, a beloved member of the Eagle River community and hockey family, passed away unexpectedly on December 29, 2024, at the age of 92. Today, we celebrate his life and honor his enduring legacy.
Ed is survived by his son Guy (Terry) of Rye, CO, daughter Gail (Tom) Kuklinski of Cumberland, WI, two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He married Dona Croker in 1951 and cherished their 63 years of happy marriage until her passing in 2014. They traveled on cruises to Panama, journeyed to Alaska, and went on camping trips to Arizona making many friends along the way. The couple enjoyed snowmobiling, and Ed was instrumental in the early construction of the Derby Track donating time and equipment. He loved snowmobile racing and volunteered at the track for nearly 50 years.
Ed was the last surviving member of the five Richter brothers, known for their hockey skills and concrete business. He was a life-long resident of Eagle River, before happily spending his final years at VitaCare Assisted Living near his daughter in Cumberland, WI.
Ed worked very hard his entire life, leaving school (and home) at 14 to work in a sawmill. He taught himself how to build things, fix things, and problem solve most anything. Always full of energy, no task was too big or too small. His many skills helped build Richter Ready Mix, as well as Richter's Cottages. He and his son built a log cabin on Cedar Creek in the U.P. of Michigan. Ed was a founding member of the B&R Hunt Club (Beaudin & Richter brothers hunting shack), a treasured place in the family.
His mountain hunting adventures were remarkable. He and his son harvested several elk over the years, writing a book together to keep memories alive. He was tough in the mountains, packing huge loads on his back. Nothing was too steep or too high. He was the best hunting partner, and best Dad ever. The Happy Hunting Grounds just got a new hunter!
A celebration of life will be held in the afternoon of June 7, 2025 at Eagle Waters Resort. Donations can be made in Ed’s name to the Eagle River Recreation Association: https://bit.ly/4hsESOf