SPARTA - Richard “Dick” A. Baudek, 82, of Sparta, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center in Sparta.
He was born on June 3, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Anthony and Loraine (Hackbarth) Baudek. He was the firstborn of their children. Dick grew up in Marshfield, Wisconsin, and graduated from Columbus High School in 1962.
Dick attended Taylor County Teachers College before earning his bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He continued his education at Winona State University, where he earned a master’s degree in school administration.
He began his teaching career in the Osseo-Fairchild School District, where he taught eighth grade. He then accepted a teaching and principal position at Southside Elementary School in Sparta. Throughout his career with the Sparta School District, Dick served as curriculum coordinator at Maplewood Elementary and as principal of Lakeview and Leon Elementary Schools. He ultimately served as the full-time principal at Southside Elementary School until his retirement in 2002.
Dick enjoyed sports, collecting stamps and coins, and, most of all, his wife Mary’s wonderful cooking. He cherished his family and took great pride in the lives of his children and grandchildren. Family truly meant everything to him.
He met Mary on a blind date while she was teaching music in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They were married in 1969 and shared 57 years together. They were blessed with three loving children: Amy Corcoran, Jon (Alison) Baudek, and Daniel (Meggan) Baudek; and six grandchildren, Ella (Luke) Schwartzhoff, Lola Baudek, Myla Baudek, Olivia (Tyler) Mielke, Samuel Baudek, and Clara Baudek, all of whom Dick cherished.
Dick is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his children and grandchildren; devoted sisters, Mary Jo Hermsen and Lynn (Dan) Holehouse; and many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Loraine; sister, Marti; and brother, Jon.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Reverend Brian Young officiating, followed by a luncheon at Club Oasis.
Family and friends are invited to visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
