Richard Francis Kubesh

Richard "Rich" Kubesh, 76, of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on January 9. Rich was born in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, to Louise (née Karpowicz) and Francis Kubesh. He was the middle child with an older sister Marilyn and a younger sister Jeanne. His life was rooted in hard work, devotion to family, and quiet strength. Rich proudly served in the United States Army and fought in the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged and awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, a recognition of the courage and sacrifice that shaped his life. While he was at boot camp, the Kubesh family moved to Minnesota. When he returned from the war, he joined them in Columbia Heights in his early 20s. It was then that Rich met his future wife, RaeLee (née Puchtel), while she was working at her father's tavern and he was working as a truck driver for Tyson Truck Lines. They married and shared 54 years of partnership, family, and support. Shortly after, Rich transitioned from the road to become a warehouseman for Tyson, where he was a dedicated member of the Teamsters union. His leadership and integrity led him to serve as a union steward until his retirement in the early 2000s. Rich and RaeLee raised two children, Cassandra (Cassie) and Christopher (Chris). Rich was an exceptionally involved father-whether keeping stats for youth hockey, helping with little league baseball, cheering at dance recitals and school plays, supporting scout activities for both kids, or simply showing up for every milestone, he always had time for his family. He loved crossword puzzles, reading the newspaper, and keeping his mind sharp with shows like Jeopardy. In retirement, his greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and cheering them on in their activities. His presence-steady, warm, and encouraging-was a gift to them all. Rich was a member of the VFW. He was active in his church community, often helping with cleaning and decorating crews. Even as he faced the challenges of Alzheimer's later in life, he continued to find joy in family gatherings and the comfort of familiar faces. Rich is survived by his beloved wife, RaeLee; his children, Christopher (Jessi) Kubesh and Cassandra (Dain) Olson; sister, Marilyn (Otto) Shudlick; and his grandchildren: Danica, Dominic, Macallan, Kennedy, and Cade who brought him endless pride. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jeanne (Bill) Tynor. Visitation will be held on January 21 at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Home in Coon Rapids, Minnesota from 4:00 - 7:00 pm. A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will take place on January 22 at the Church of the Epiphany in Coon Rapids at 10:30 am. A gathering of family will be available an hour before the mass. A military salute and final prayers will be said at the church after the mass with a lunch to follow. Rich's life was defined by service-to his family, his community, his country, and his faith. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Tributes

Richard Francis Kubesh

February 24, 1949 - January 9, 2026

Tributes

Richard Francis Kubesh

February 24, 1949 - January 9, 2026

We are here for you 24x7

Call us and get help now

(612) 377-2203