SSGT Richard M. "Rick" Biesterveld USMCR (Ret.), Combined Locks, age 48 died unexpectedly on Thursday January 28, 2010. He was born in Appleton to Leo and Rita (Mc Dermott) Biesterveld on August 31, 1961. Rick graduated from boot camp at Camp Pendleton in 1981. Following active duty, he continued to serve in the Reserves and was deployed to Iraq in 2003. Rick loved his country and carried a great sense of pride from his years of military service. Rick was a father to two beautiful boys that meant the world to him. The things that brought the most joy to his life were spending time with family and friends, riding his motorcycle and boat racing. He also enjoyed water skiing and snow skiing, following the Packers, and was a Golden Gloves Boxing Champion. He was employed at the Appleton Post Office since 1985.
Rick is survived by his children: Peyton and Garret; parents: Leo and Rita, Kaukauna; siblings: Julia (Kevin) LeNoble, Menasha; Kevin (Donna), Little Chute; and Linda (Victor) Van Stralen, Combined Locks; and nephews and niece: Luke, Nick (godchild) and Charissa LeNoble, Adam (godchild) and Ryan Biesterveld, Reed and Nathan Van Stralen. He is further survived by other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be held Monday February 1, 2010 beginning at 2:00 p.m. until time of funeral at 6:00 p.m. at CHRIST THE ROCK COMMUNITY CHURCH (W6254 Hwy. 10-114 Menasha). The Pastor David Vande Hey will officiate. Full military honors will follow.
Rick was a person that could always be counted on whenever help was needed. He was a friend to many and a dear son and uncle. He will be greatly missed.