Evergreen Funeral Home

Richard D. Lax

Died: Tuesday, September 28th, 2021

A private celebration of Richard's life will be held at a later date.

Interment: Park Hill Cemetery, Duluth, Minnesota 

 

On Tuesday, September 28, 2021, Richard D. Lax, took advantage of the nice weather. He put on his ball cap, loaded up his boat, and headed out early for the greatest fishing trip of his lifetime.

After 95 years, this man surely deserves to kick back, soak up some sun, and catch some big ones. Richard was born August 9, 1926 in Duluth, MN to Axel and Ina (Nurkka) Lax and was one of five children out to test the waters. Having loved fishing since he was a boy, he really did get out on the water. Richard graduated from Central High School in Duluth and then from trade school two years later. In August of 1950, Richard joined the Army and was one of the first draftees to leave Duluth to serve in the Korean War. He was part of the 81mm Mortar Squad which made it possible for him to serve his country and have his contract up in 1952.

When the year 1954 rolled around, Richard married Ruth Dahlberg. The two brought three children into the world and continued to raise their children and remain good friends after divorcing in 1969. Alongside being a father, and many fishing trips and outings, Richard spent his time plugging away at the Duluth News Tribune as a printer. He worked there for 36 years before retiring in 1989. After this, Richard caught more fish than one could count at his favorite resort in Sag (in Canada) at the Madsen's Resort.

To sum up a life, any life, much less a life of 95 years, is a hard thing to do. You truly cannot give enough words. Richard Lax was a very kind man, soft spoken, witty, and always able to shine you a smile. Richard was there for his country, his friends, and his family (not to mention the Twins and the Vikings) which would lead one to be rather tired after 95 years...

Such a loved man will leave quite a wake when he boats out. So, when you find yourself missing him; crack open a peanut shell, crinkle open a caramel, turn the game on, throw out a line, get out on the water, or go ahead and pour yourself an extra cup of coffee. We love you, Grandpa. Thank you for pluggin' away for as long as you did.

Richard is survived by his children, David Lax (Keira Youngbloom), Lisa Tepsa (former son-in-law, Gerry Tepsa), and Brian (Diana) Lax; sister, Mary Anderson. He leaves many memories behind with his eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Richard will now be able to see his parents again. He will also be able to hug his siblings, Alyce Zabukover, Jack Lax, and Tommy Lax, as well as a great-granddaughter, and a few best friends.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Chippewa Falls and St. Joseph's Hospice for taking care of their dad, grandpa, brother, and uncle.