Richard Rossow

Richard “Dick” Rossow, age 87 of Hoffman, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at RenVilla Health Center in Renville.  Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 24, 2020 at Redwood Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the cemetery on Thursday. Guests are asked to bring their own chair if desired. Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, guests will be required to practice social distancing. Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Richard “Dick” Junior Rossow was born January 26, 1933 to Richard and Gertrude (Kuhnau) Rossow on the home place near Lakefield, Minnesota.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Church in rural Lakefield.  As a child, he enjoyed fox hunting with greyhounds.  Dick graduated from Lamberton High School in 1953.  On June 20, 1953 he married the love of his life MaryAnne Okins.  Dick was drafted into the U.S. Army and was stationed in Alexandria, VA.  After his discharge, Dick attended South Dakota State and graduated with a degree in horticulture. He began his teaching career in Astoria, SD, then to Cottonwood, MN, and finally Hoffman, MN, where he retired in 1973.  He was a coach and mentor to many students throughout his teaching career. After Dick retired, he became an insurance broker.  He was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Hoffman, where he also served as an elder.  Dick was a devoted husband to his wife MaryAnne of 62 years.  They were avid gardeners and loved wintering in Arizona.  Dick loved all sports and spending time with Abbie his Shih Tzu and constant companion for 14 years.  He also enjoyed writing stories and poems.  Dick was a wonderful dad and always had time for his children and treasured his grandchildren. He was a friend-maker and loved making connections with people and visiting.

Richard is survived by his children: Kelly Troe of Lakefield, Patti (Bennett) Nielsen of Ivanhoe, Jackie (Brian) Frank of Olivia and Valerie Rossow of Lakefield; grandchildren: Jon & Naomi Troe, Paul, Spencer & Hannah Oellien, and Devyn Frank; great grandson Tatum Covey. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife MaryAnne, brother David and beloved dog Abbie.