Richard Aakre, age 79 of Redwood Falls, passed away Saturday, September 23, 2023 in Mankato. Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 14, 2023 at First Presbyterian Church in Redwood Falls. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church on Saturday. Interment will be at Redwood Falls Cemetery at a later date. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Richard “Rich” Aakre was born to Harold and Harriet (Taplin) Aakre on September 2, 1944 in Fairmont, Minnesota. He attended elementary and high school in Fairmont and four years of college at Mankato State University. Rich was married to Joyce “Diane” Bateman on April 30, 1966 at First Presbyterian Church in Mankato. They lived a short time in Mankato and then re-located to Redwood Falls. Rich was passionate about Amateur Radio and severe storm spotting. He was a longtime member of ARRL – American Radio Relay League. As President of Fannie S. Gilfillan Memorial foundation, Rich was able to fulfill another passion of helping anyone in need. He was very active in the First Presbyterian Church in Redwood Falls including holding the church treasurer position. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting. Rich was involved in all sorts of family projects.

Rich is survived by his son Steven of Redwood Falls and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Diane, infant daughter Jennifer and sister Jeanne.