With profound sadness, we announce the passing of John Richard “Dick” Plotz, a cherished father, husband, and friend. Dick peacefully departed on January 15, 2025, at the age of 84, surrounded by his loving family. His reunion with his beloved wife, Joan Kay, in heaven marks the end of a beautiful chapter, forever etching John R 15 in our memories as a date of reflection and remembrance. Born on February 24, 1940, to Godfrey and Lucille Plotz, Dick’s life was one of profound impact and enduring love.
Dick’s legacy is woven into the lives of many, a testament to his influential roles as a devoted husband, a guiding father, an adoring grandpa and great-grandpa, a supportive father-in-law, a caring brother, a fun-loving uncle, a dear cousin, a loyal friend, a respected colleague, and a proud Corporal in the United States Marines. Each of these roles showcased a facet of his generous spirit and unwavering commitment to those around him.
He is lovingly remembered by his four children: Debie (John) Koneck, Mark Plotz (Laurie Ketchum Plotz), Kelli (Dan) Klein, and Amy (Brian) Kleist. His memory will be treasured by his grandchildren: Ashley Klein (Matthew Holmen), Robert (Ellen) Koneck, Jacob (Lacey) Plotz, Aaron (Kalani) Plotz, Ryan Kleist, Samantha Leverett, Andrew Kleist, Matthew Kleist, and Steven Kleist. Dick’s joy was multiplied by his nine great-grandchildren: John, Harleigh, Emmett, Brycen, Everly, Wallace, Arthur, Luka, and Brooks, each a continuation of his vibrant family tree.
As the eldest of eight siblings, Dick was a pillar of strength and love for his family. He is survived by Mike Plotz (Betty Leerar Bublitz), Janice (Jim) Armstrong, Doug (Candy) Plotz, Tonda (Jerry) Ashby, and Tim Plotz. He was also blessed with a large extended family of nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his warmth and kindness.
Dick was preceded in passing by his wife, Joan Plotz, his parents, Godfrey and Lucille Plotz, and his siblings, Terry Plotz, Tom Plotz, and Tonda Ashby. While we mourn his absence, we find solace in celebrating a life well-lived, marked by love, service, and dedication, especially as we reflect on John R 15.
A Memorial Service to honor Dick’s life will be held at Fish Lake Lutheran Church on Saturday, March 22, located at 43353 Cedarcrest Trail, Harris MN 55032. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by the service at 12:00 PM. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall, providing an opportunity to share memories and celebrate Dick’s life together.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project, supporting a cause close to Dick’s heart. Donations can be made at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
For those traveling from out of town, hotel recommendations are provided for your convenience:
NORTH BRANCH (Closest to the Church and the Kleins)
- Americinn by Wyndham (#651-243-4596) 38675 14th Avenue, North Branch (9.2 miles to church)
ISANTI (Closest to the Church and Kleins)
- Best Western Plus Isanti (New Hotel) 409 Main Street East, Isanti (15 miles to church)
FOREST LAKE (Closest to the Kleins)
- Country Inn and Suites ( #612-464-8228) 1954 West Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake (23 miles to church)
- Americinn by Wyndham (#651-464-1930) 1291 West Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake (24 miles to church)
COLUMBUS (Closest to Kleists)
- Running Aces Hotel and Casino by Wyndham (651-925-4450) 15201 Running Aces Boulevard, Columbus, MN 55025 (28 miles to church)
WHITE BEAR LAKE (Closest to the Kleists and Konecks)
- White Bear Country Inn, Best Western Plus (#651-429-5393) 4940 State Hwy 61, White Bear Lake (38 miles to church)
VADNAIS HEIGHTS (Closest to the Kleists and Konecks)
- Fairfield Inn & Suites (#651-797-3008) 1125 East County Road E East, Vadnais Heights (39 miles to church)
- Holiday Inn Express (#1-877-859-5095) 1100 East County Road E East, Vadnais Heights 39 miles to church)
- Comfort Inn and Suites (#651-483-1625) 3505 Vadnais Center Drive, Vadnais Heights (40 miles to church)
As we say goodbye to Dick, we hold dear the memories and lessons he imparted, forever cherishing the essence of John R 15 as a moment in time that reminds us of his lasting impact.
