Henry “Hank” Leroy Vogelgesang

Henry (Hank) Vogelgesang, age 89, long time resident of Richfield, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family, on April 3, 2020, due to complications of a 26-year stint with Parkinson’s and later Parkinson’s related dementia.
Hank was born in Watertown, MN on December 26, 1930 to Roy and Beata Vogelgesang. He graduated from Delano High School and served honorably in the United States Navy during the Korean War, on an aircraft carrier as well as in Japan.

Hank was united in marriage with Marilyn Smith on January 2, 1954 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waverly, MN. They were 64-year residents of Richfield, MN who together tolerated the antics of their five children. Hank attended Dunwoody Institute leading to a lifelong career in plumbing. He founded Aqua City Plumbing and Irrigation in the basement of his home in 1963. He retired in 1999, selling the business to his son Dave. His quality work resides today in many Richfield and area homes.

He served as Commander of the Richfield American Legion Post 435 in 1986 where he was a life member. He was also a life member of the Knights of Columbus and VFW. He was instrumental in organizing fundraising for the creation of the Brain Sciences Center with the Veterans Administration Medical Center working with veterans with brain disorders.

Hank was always a kind and gentle man, who helped anybody that needed it. He was an active member of St. Richard’s Catholic Church and a Boy Scout leader. He also supported his children with all of their sports activities. His many hobbies included hunting, fishing and camping. From his unconditional love for his family, committed Catholic faith, to his enthusiasm to host a party at the house, Hank will be greatly missed. Family gatherings will never be the same without his beer in hand, smile and laugh.

Preceded in death by, Marilyn, his wife of 59 years; grandson Philip; parents Roy and Beata; sister, Rita Oestreich; and brother, Gene Vogelgesang.

He is survived by his children, Colette (Robert) Dolan, Mark, Jim, Dave, and Sue (Bob) Glover; Eight grandchildren: Melissa Weigand (Scott), Laura Stotts Gorans (Bob), Karen Stotts (Ted Kraemer), Sarah Kopczyk (Kyle), Brad Glover, Ryan Vogelgesang, Anna Vogelgesang, Nicole Vogelgesang, 6 great grandchildren. Sisters Mary Malumphy (Ed) and Carol Pool; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many life-long friends.

His family would like to thank Dr Scott Lewis and all of the wonderful doctors and support people at the VA Medical Center, the Richfield ADHC “men’s club” thru the VA, and to Sharon and Cindy with Grace Hospice. A special thank you to Kevin and other employees of Sandy’s Tavern for always looking out for Hank. He lived for their “Hank” burger and a beer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, October 23, 2020 at St. Richard's Catholic Church, 7540 Penn Ave S Minneapolis, MN. Visitation one hour prior.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall – Grand Ball Room (Bloomington Event Center) on Friday, October 23, 2020. 1:00 – 4:00 pm. 1114 American Blvd., Bloomington, MN.

Covid-19 precautions will be observed, including masks and social distancing requirements. We recognize it is a personal choice for attendance at any function during this time and understand if we are in your thoughts and prayers from a distance.

Private burial with full Military Honors at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.