Richard J. Henrichs
Richard J. Henrichs
NIAGARA, Wis. — Richard J. “Rick” Henrichs, 63, of Niagara, Wis., passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with a rare brain disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD). Rick’s journey with this devastating illness began in the spring of 2024, and he received an official diagnosis in the fall of that year.
He was born on Nov. 7, 1961, in Milwaukee, the son of the late Paul and Florence (Noeske) Henrichs. Rick graduated from Florence High School in 1980, worked at the family restaurant, The Eagle’s Nest, and continued on to attend Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wis., where he completed the culinary arts program.
Rick lived a life marked by hard work, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was the proud co-owner of Best Buy Liquor, Inc. for 37 years. Rick was the definition of a hard-working family man — faithful, loving, helpful, steady, and strong. He taught us the value of perseverance, the importance of faith, and the meaning of unconditional love.
Rick had a heart of gold and a selfless spirit. He had a special gift for making everyone he spoke to feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for. Whether it was a quick visit, a shared story, or a quiet moment over coffee, Rick’s warmth left a lasting imprint on all who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and steady presence were a comfort to so many.
Rick’s favorite moments were spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved hunting and making memories at camp with his brothers, son, and nephews. He found joy in riding his tractor, caring for his chickens, and making maple syrup. He treasured time playing cards with his wonderful group of friends — his coffee clutch crew — and was never far from the companionship of his shih tzus.
A devoted Catholic, Rick found strength in his faith throughout his life, especially during his illness. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Niagara.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Florence Henrichs; father-in-law John Nichols; mother-in-law Sandra Pukall; and stepfather-in-law Wayne Pukall.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 35 years, Donna Henrichs; his children, Jacob Henrichs and Brittany (Cole) Conery; and his grandchildren, Grace and Noah Conery. He is also survived by his seven siblings: Betsy (Jon) Pier, Cindy (Lou) Ribish, Charles (Sheila) Henrichs, Sue (Bill) Schmitt, Laura (Fred) Harvath, John (Susie) Henrichs, and Marge (Butch) Harvath; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Unity Hospice, the CJD Foundation, and the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance Center, and especially Dr. Brian Appleby, for their guidance and compassion.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 26, from 9 to 11 a.m. at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Niagara. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m., with Father Joe Dorner officiating. Burial will take place at the Niagara Cemetery, followed by a luncheon in the church hall.
Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Rick’s family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com.
The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home-Niagara Chapel of Niagara, Wis., to honor Rick’s legacy of life.
