Richard Greunke

Richard Leroy Greunke, 83, of Denver, passed away peacefully on Aug. 18, 2017, in Littleton, Colorado.

Richard married Virginia Louise Peterson in Ogallala, Nebraska, on Aug. 30, 1952. They shared 64 years, 11 months and 17 days of marriage together.

Richard was born in Milford, Neb., on Jan. 1, 1934, and was raised by his loving parents, Otto and Alvina Greunke.

He graduated from Valparaiso University in 1955 and worked as an electrical engineer at Martin Marietta for 36 years. After leaving Martin Marietta, he continued working; managing the family properties.

Richard was an avid photographer and musician. He also enjoyed archeology.  He and Virginia traveled the world. Some of his fondest memories were made on family cruises with his children and grandchildren.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Denver and will be remembered as a family man with a powerful bass voice who loved bluegrass and country gospel. 

On Saturday nights, he could frequently be found jamming at the Old Country Church where he was an accomplished guitar, banjo, dulcimer and autoharp player.

Richard is survived by his wife, Virginia and their children, Roy Greunke (Lynn), Julia Bland, and Dale Greunke (Cindy.) He is also survived by grandchildren Lara Greunke-Bondch (Simon;) Ethan, Aaron, John and Joshua Greunke; and Susan (Doug Blake) and Rich Bland. Great-grandchildren include Kailyn and Jadyn Greunke and Aspyn Bondch. Survivors also include his brothers Leo and Alvin and many nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at the family plot at Trinity Lutheran Church in Grant, Neb., on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 2 p.m.