Pexa, Richard E., age 74, of Lonsdale passed away on April 30, 2026, in Watertown, MN surrounded by family.

He was born March 6, 1952, in New Prague to Frank and Julia (Smisek). He grew up in Elko graduating from Jordan High School in 1970. He married Mary Simon on May 17, 1975 in Lonsdale and lived there for the next 25 years while they raised their six children.

Richard worked for the telephone company as a lineman, earned his heavy equipment mechanics certificate and enjoyed working on and operating excavating machinery. He also earned his plumber's license while working for the Union.

He loved music, and we treasure the memories of him bringing home LPs and eight‑track tapes like the Oak Ridge Boys, the Beach Boys and polka music. As a family, we danced, sang along, and shared joyful moments filled with music.

Richard enjoyed fishing, family camping trips, dancing, bowling league, and spending time at gatherings with family and friends. We remember many Sunday drives as Dad loved cruising the open road with the windows down and the music turned up throughout his life. Along the way, we'd try to convince him to stop for a treat, and sometimes we succeeded, especially after visiting Grandma and Grandpa Pexa, when we'd get ice cream sandwiches from Doherty's. His favorite cold treats were pineapple malts and root beer floats.

He was known for his contagious, boisterous laugh and voice. Action movies and knee‑slapping humor like the Three Stooges were among his favorites, often leaving him laughing so hard he cried.

As a life-long Vikings fan, he liked discussing sports and school events with his grandchildren. With a Pepsi in his hand, he had fun playing card games like Euchre and UNO with his children and grandchildren during the holidays and family parties.

He is survived by his loving ex-wife, Mary, children and grandchildren: Jackie (Derek) Sayres, Oliver and Annie; Joe (Monica) Pexa; Nancy Rettmann, Alex and Andrew; Rick (Becca) Pexa, Austin, Adeline, and Lucas; Annette Pexa, Gus, Gretta, and Elsie; Brianna (Clint) Long, Henry and Lucy; siblings Judy Doherty, Frank (Georgette) Pexa, brother-in-law Roman Moravec and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Dale (Fran) Pexa, Donna Moravec, and brother-in-law Jim Doherty.

Visitation will take place Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 4pm-8pm at White Funeral Home in Lonsdale, MN. A private burial will take place at a later date.