Richard R. Herbst

Richard R. Herbst, age 84, of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin was welcomed into the arms of his Savior on March 20, 2026, at Agrace Hospice, surrounded by his family who loved him so dearly. Though his earthly journey has ended, the legacy of his faith, humility, and steadfast devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on May 17, 1941, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Victor and Frances Herbst, Richard grew up grounded in the values that would define his life - hard work, quiet strength, and a deep sense of responsibility. After graduating from Beaver Dam High School, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the Wisconsin National Guard and later being activated into the U.S. Army in 1961. With the 32nd Division, he spent ten months at Fort Lewis, Washington, forming bonds and memories that remained with him throughout his life.

Upon returning home, Richard married the love of his life, Joyce (Warmka) Herbst, and together they built a family rooted in love, respect, and faith. Beaver Dam remained their home, and Richard poured his heart into both his work and his community. He worked for the City of Beaver Dam Engineering Department, worked with a local engineering firm, and eventually fulfilled a dream by owning and operating Richard Herbst Land Surveying. Later, he became a familiar and friendly face as the Front Desk Clerk at the Beaver Dam Post Office, greeting neighbors with the same warmth and steadiness that defined him.

In retirement, Richard embraced the simple joys that brought him happiness - golfing on sunny mornings, dancing with his Fox Lake polka family, and spending cherished time with his children, grandchildren, and lifelong friends. His presence was gentle but strong, the kind of man whose guidance was felt more in his actions than his words.

He is survived by his children: Stephen (Kasey) Herbst, Mark Herbst, and Tammy (Dave) Langendorf; and by his grandchildren: Alexis (Hunter) Ward, Jordan Langendorf, Amelia Herbst, and Allen Herbst - each of whom carries a piece of his heart and his example forward. He is also survived by sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and other relatives, neighbors, and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Joyce, his brother Victor Herbst, and his special friend, Marion Manka. He is also preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Andrew and Adeline Warmka, his brothers-in-law, Joe Warmka, Jim Warmka, Andrew Warmka Jr., and David Warmka, as well as other relatives and dear friends.

Those who knew Richard will remember him for his quiet strength, his respectful and steady guidance, and the deep, unwavering love he held for his family and friends. His life was a testament to humility, service, and faith - an everyday reflection of God’s grace lived out with sincerity.

Richard’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the UW Carbone Cancer Center team for your expert partnership, to the SSM/St Mary’s Hospital nurses for your extraordinary care, and especially to the Agrace team for the truly exceptional, unwavering, and deeply human support you provided. Your compassion, clarity, and presence brought comfort and dignity to our dad and strength to our entire family.

Visitation for Richard will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Beaver Dam from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m., followed by burial at Highland Memory Gardens, where Richard will be laid to rest beside his wife and parents, and where his family will gather to honor a life beautifully lived. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with those who went before him, and may his memory continue to be a blessing to all who were touched by his life.