Richard K. Nordeng

Born: August 8, 1945, Janesville, Wisconsin

Died: December 14, 2024, peacefully at his home in Waunakee, Wisconsin

Richard K. Nordeng, a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, veteran, and accomplished attorney, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by love.

Rich was born and raised in Janesville, Wisconsin, and graduated from Janesville High School as a National Merit Scholar. There, he played baseball and basketball and was an active debate team member. During high school, he met Barbara (Black) Nordeng, the love of his life.

After graduating, Rich attended Northwestern University for his undergraduate studies in mathematics before proudly serving his country as a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Upon returning, he pursued his legal education at UW-Madison Law School, embarking on a remarkable career in law. He worked at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP for over 40 years, ultimately retiring as a loyal and trusted partner. Among his many achievements, Rich was instrumental in helping Fitchburg become a city, a highlight of his professional legacy.

Rich and Barb shared a life filled with joy and connection. They raised three sons, Eric, Bradley, and Gregory. They spent many happy days playing bridge, golfing, and enjoying time at their family cottage in Pulcifer, Wisconsin.

After Barb's passing, Rich was fortunate to find true love again with Ann (Benish)(Gillman) Nordeng, a devoted and loving partner who brought joy and companionship to his later years. Together, they traveled extensively, often playing bridge at a highly competitive level, including on cruises dedicated to their shared passion.

Rich was an Emerald Life Master in Bridge and was widely regarded as one of the finest players in the game. A natural problem-solver and voracious reader, he was passionate about books, games, and logic puzzles. In addition to his sharp mind and strategic brilliance, Rich was an avid trout fisherman, finding solace in nature. He was also a talented writer and authored Tales From the Willow, a heartwarming and humorous collection of stories dedicated to his family. A diehard Wisconsin Badger fan, he proudly held season tickets for the football and basketball teams for decades.

Rich is survived by his loving wife, Ann Nordeng; his three sons, Eric (wife Kristine) Nordeng, Bradley (wife Marie) Nordeng, and Gregory Nordeng; and his grandchildren, Ivory, Taylor, James, Dane, and Aila, who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister, Sue (Nordeng) Carlton, and his brother, Jeff Nordeng. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara (Black) Nordeng, and his parents, George Nordeng and Dorothy (Holden)(Nordeng) Rowley.

A visitation will be held December 19 from 4-6 PM at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison, WI 53705. A second visitation will occur December 20 from 9:30-11 AM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 5701 Raymond Rd, Madison, WI 53711, followed by his funeral service starting at 11 AM. The service will be live streamed. Please click on the following link: https://boxcast.tv/view/nordeng-funeral---december-20-2024-zlbqvo97hwq3xmcdaub1

After the funeral, everyone is invited to a celebration of life ceremony from 12-3 PM held at the Vintage Brewing Company, 674 S Whitney Way, Madison, WI 53711.

Rich's life was a masterpiece of love, humor, intellect, and devotion. He leaves a legacy of cherished memories, timeless wisdom, and countless moments of joy for all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Agrace Hospice Care, https://www.agrace.org/ or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church,https://gslcwi.com/.

Please share your memories of Rich here on his tribute wall.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434