Richard James Amelse, Air National Guard veteran

Richard James Amelse, 88, of Sun Prairie died April 1, 2026, at SSM St. Mary's Hospital in Madison. Born January 1, 1938, in Eau Claire to Adrian and Marie (Vandersanden) Amelse, he grew up on a farm near Fall Creek and attended Pine Grove Grade School, Cadott High School and Madison Area Technical College.

Military and civilian service

Amelse married Diane Esser on October 12, 1963, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Boyd. They had two children, Adrian and Deborah.

He served in the U.S. Air Force from October 1961 to October 1969 and joined the Wisconsin Air National Guard in 1969. Working as a civilian technician and aircraft mechanic, he retired as quality assurance superintendent in 1994. He continued in the Guard until October 1997, retiring as a chief master sergeant.

His recognitions included the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal and Vietnam Service Medal. He joined American Legion Post 333 in 1969 and was post commander in 1975. He entered the Wisconsin Air National Guard Hall of Fame in 2001, held lifetime membership in VFW Post 9362 and participated in a Badger Honor Flight in 2025.

Family and service

Amelse enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and card games and belonged to Sacred Hearts Catholic Church. Survivors include children Adrian (Donna) and Deborah; grandchildren Andrea and Danielle (Justin) Albertie; great-grandchildren Malina Dewey, Brantley Albertie and Oakleigh Albertie; brother Peter; and sister-in-law LaVonne Horne. His wife Diane, grandson Brian, parents and 11 siblings preceded him in death.

A funeral was scheduled for April 7 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church, 221 Columbus St., Sun Prairie, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Father Vince Brewer was to preside, with Monsignor Duane Molenbrandt concelebrating. Burial with military honors was planned at Sacred Hearts Cemetery. Cress Funeral & Cremation Service handled arrangements.