Richard Edward Elias Sr.

May 26, 1936 - February 17, 2022

Racine – Richard Edward Elias Sr., 85, passed away at his home on Thursday, February 17, 2022, with his family at his side. Rich was born in Racine to Edward and Grace (nee Juhre) Elias on May 26, 1936. After he served in the United States Army, Rich was united in marriage to Jean L. Dygon on December 17, 1960. He was employed at J. I. Case for 42 years retiring in 1997. After retirement, Rich enjoyed several years of world travel, delighting in experiencing a safari in Kenya, exploring the jungles of Thailand on the back of an elephant, and walking atop of the Great Wall of China. Rich was an avid bowler scoring three 300 sanctioned games and achieving Racine Senior Bowler of the Year for the 2003 season. Rich’s absolute passion was fishing, taking many trips to Canada from 1966 through 2019. He had caught a substantial amount of muskie, the largest being 52-1/2 inches. Rich was a strong-willed man with a kind heart. Most importantly, he was an outstanding father and a tremendous grandfather with a great sense of imagination. Rich will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 61 years, Jean; children; Aimee (Douglas Tittle) Nutini and Rich Jr. (Shelly) Elias; grandchildren: Christopher Nutini (Megan Heibel), Kalie Nutini, Alaina Elias, and Braydon Elias; brothers: Ted and Tom (Linda) Elias; stepbrother, Chuck Erickson; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Grace Elias; stepfather, Ray Erickson; sister, Annette Varwig; and step sister-in-law, Barbara Erickson. A celebration of Rich’s life will be held privately for the family with interment at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Memorials to one’s favorite charity has been suggested. Please visit www.wilsonfuneralhomeinc.com to share online condolences.