Richard S. Sheehy of Algoma and Washington Island, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 6, 2015. A memorial service was held in Algoma and followed by a private burial on Washington Island on March 9th. A celebration of his life will be held on Washington Island this summer.
Dick was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 1922 to Edward and Henrietta Sheehy. He attended the University of Michigan before marrying his childhood sweetheart, Patricia Marshall in 1943. The consummate patriot, Dick promptly enlisted in the Army Air Corps and entered WWII. In an air raid over Ploesti, Romania, his plane was shot down. He evaded capture by the Germans for 4 months as he walked hundreds of miles to safety. It was a defining moment in his life, and he will be remembered as a member of the group of men that became known as the "Forgotten 500".
Following the war, Dick began a career with the Quaker Oats Company. He quickly rose within the company as a production specialist. His work took him with his wife Patty and 8 children from coast to coast for the next 30 years. He was the Director of Operations when he retired in 1973.
Having fallen in love with Washington Island in 1965, Dick and Patty moved there after retirement and called the Island home for their rest of their lives. They founded Havëgard Farm Inc. in 1973, now located in Algoma, 42 years old and counting. They were very involved in Island life, serving on the town, school, and Art and Nature Center boards. They treasured the lasting bonds they formed with their many Island friends.
Dick was preceded in death by Patty and one granddaughter, Anna. He is survived by his brother, Charles Sheehy of Cedar Rapids, IA, his 8 children, Tally, Erin (Mike), Edward (Christi), Stevie (John), Rick (Kathy), Maureen, Kevin, Brian (JoAnn), 23 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his curiosity, creativity, and innovative spirit. No problem was too great to overcome. But more than anything else, Dick will be remembered as a constant and loving partner to Patty, his wife of 63 years, and as the leader of the band - his loving family.
It is our wish that any desired donations be made to Unity Hospice and Palliative Care (2366 Oak Ridge Circle, DePere, WI 54115) or to Home Instead Senior Care (901 Anderson Drive, Green Bay, WI 54304).
Wiesner & Massart Funeral Homes are assisting with the arrangements. Online condolence messages may be shared here .
