Richard Poulsen

MIDDLETON
On June 2, 2016, we laid to rest one of the last Great Danes. Richard W. Poulsen, age 88, of Middleton, WI, Korean Veteran, pilot, hunter, fisherman, expert in all things with combustible engines, mason, artist in stone and brick--this strappingly handsome Renaissance man called it quitting time. He was the father of two fiercely independent daughters, Linda and Karen Farnsworth (Eric), grand-daughters Kate and Taylor Farnsworth, and husband of 64 years to Joan, his equally determined and hard working wife. He will now enjoy a new perch atop scaffolding in the sky to watch a family he nurtured and protected carry on. Some men are known for their soaring oratory or academic accomplishments, but Dick was a man of few words letting his genius speak through his hands, his ability to build homes for his family, and uncanny intellect that figured out all projects large and small. He could fix anything--often with used parts--that was all the better. The beautiful homes he built for his young family, as well as those he built for his daughters' new families, stand as a testament to his artistry and his love and loyalty to his clan. The shear energy he showed the world, rising before dawn to work as a mason 8+ hours and then returning to his "second" job to build, or renovate, or help a friend until dark, revealed a work ethic that few could match but many wanted to emulate.

Comfortable around the men on the job, or socializing with doctors, lawyers, and wacky musicians, Dick was known to be a "man's man," whose importance and stature shone through in his quiet confidence. He imparted a "can-do" spirit to his daughters, who rarely got his hug, but knew they had his respect and admiration. He served as a second Dad to his son in law whose admiration for him was boundless and who to this day tries to emulate his ability to be a universal Mr. Fixit to all in need.

We will deeply miss his towering presence, his focus on making things for those he loved, his unending loyalty to the family he fostered. We remain in his large shadow and go forward having stood on his shoulders. He now joins his sisters Jan Sweet and Marilyn Henricksen. He was idolized by his nieces and nephews, including Sue Lenart (Bill), Jeff Sweet (Nancy), Jill and Paul (Cyndi) Henricksen. He can sit back now and admire the many structures he helped build here in Madison, and the homes and hearths that will shelter those he leaves behind. Finally, this man, whose hands and heart produced art comparable to the great masters, can be restored to that 6'2" square-shouldered frame and assist that great union boss in the sky to build a better and "level" hereafter.

Cress Center
6021 University Ave
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-8406