RICHARD LUFT

Richard “Dick” H. Luft, age 96 passed away November 30, 2021, after a long and happy life. He was born December 31, 1924, in Oshkosh, WI to Conrad and Katherine Luft. Dick is survived by his son Dr. Rick Luft (Sandra Roberts) of Winneconne, WI and Sun City West, AZ; grandchildren: Stacy (Charles) Muinde, Neenah, WI; Brent (Sarah) Luft, Germantown, WI; Katie (Glenn) Hanna, Tomahawk, WI; great grandchildren: Ryan, Wyatt, Addison, Kayla, Olivia, Harrison, and Sawyer. Extended family includes Mark (Jane) Gass, Tomahawk, WI; Kimberly (Philip) Brodjieski, Noah and Abigail, Weston, WI; Kayla (Mitchel) Bias and Isaac, Eau Claire, WI.

   He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings and suffered the loss of his wife Norma, son Mark, daughters-in-law Cynthia “Cindi” Luft and Kristine (Luft) Gass.

On December 28, 1946, Dick married the love of his life Norma Goerlitz and they were married for 55 years. Dick was a veteran of World War II serving in Italy before attending college at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh where he received his degree in Education leading to a 36-year career with the Neenah School District, teaching elementary students as well as the roles of principal and director of elementary education.  To exemplify his notable career, Neenah Mayor Marigen Carpenter declared January 17 “Dick Luft Day” in the City of Neenah.

Dick enjoyed many activities in his life, but none more than hunting, fishing, and golfing.  He was a longtime member at Ridgeway Country Club where he spent a lot of time with family, had many lifelong friends and won numerous tournaments.  Toward the end of his playing career, as an honor, he was granted a lifetime membership to the club.

Special thank you to everyone at Heartland Hospice, American Grande, and Physical Therapist Angie Luck.  We appreciate the care you gave him in his final days, months, and years. 

The funeral service will be held at noon, Friday, December 10, 2021, at Westgor Funeral Home, Neenah, with Rev. Mark Gass officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the hour of service.  In lieu of flowers a memorial is being established in Dick's name to be donated to elementary students in need in the Neenah School District.

Dick Luft aka Grumps, Little Papa, Poppy – an incredible, honorable man who led an active and great life, the epitome of the Greatest Generation.  He will always be loved and never forgotten!