Richard Despin

Richard B. “Dick” Despin, 73, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully at Brookside Care Center on Tuesday, January 1, 2013, hours after bringing in the New Year with his three children, Doug, Kurt and Kris. Born in Kenosha on October 8, 1939, he was the son of the late Leonard and Gladys (Curran) Despin. A lifelong resident of Kenosha, he was educated in local schools. Dick was in the United States Army from 1961 until his honorable discharge in 1964. On August 6, 1960, in Kenosha, he married Karen Berg. They later divorced but remained close friends. He later married Roberta "Bert" Orear on May 25, 1980. They were married for 27 years and she preceded him in death in 2007. He was employed as a welder by American Motors /Chrysler Corp. retiring after 30 years. He also was a bartender at Midtown Bar and Restaurant and owned and operated Cherry Bounce. Dick was a member of the Viscounts Car Club, the KPBL since its inception, and enjoyed playing pool and bowling, of which he participated in many tournaments. Surviving are his children, Doug (Tina) Despin of Kenosha, Kurt (Melissa) Despin of Racine, Kris Despin of Kenosha, Lori (Larry) Gonzales of Kenosha, Debbie (Jeff) Strom of Waupun, WI, and Lisa Orear of Kenosha; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also survived by former wife, Karen Despin of Kenosha. He was preceded in death by a brother, Al Despin; a sister, Jane Mahoney; and a step son, David Orear. Dick’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Brookside Care Center for all of the kind and compassionate care they gave him. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 5th, at Proko Funeral Home at 4:00 p.m. followed by full military honors. Visitation will be held on Saturday at Proko Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Proko Funeral Home & Crematory 5111-60th Street Kenosha, WI 53144 Phone: (262) 654-3533 Visit Dick’s Online Memorial Book at: www.prokofuneralhome.com