Richard Marotz

Richard Arnold Marotz, age 78, of Westfield, passed away on July 15, 2026. Richard was born on November 13, 1947, in Portage to Arnold and Esther (Gates) Marotz. He graduated from Westfield High School and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, where he earned his Masters in Agricultural Education.

On April 27, 1974, Richard married the love of his life, Shirley Hockerman, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Westfield. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work, raising four children on the family farm. Shirley preceded Richard in death on February 22, 2024.

Richard dedicated his life to farming alongside Shirley, caring for the land and providing for his family. Farming was more than his occupation—it was his passion and a way of life. He also enjoyed hunting and collecting antique firearms, appreciating their history and craftsmanship. Above all, Richard cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family and the farm he loved.

Richard is survived by his four children: Dan (Tristin) Marotz of Verona, Joe (Ann) Marotz of Westfield, Rebecca Marotz of Milwaukee, and Emily (Alex) Melius of La Crosse; five grandchildren: Ethan, Johnathan, Abraham, Henry, and Cassandra; James (Callie) Meiller, who became like a son to Richard and Shirley, and their children, Tyson, Robin, and Graden; Steve Kemnitz, whose support of the family farm and care for the family meant so much; his sister, Judy (Ed) Peirick; sister-in-law, Kathy (Paul) Frey; brothers-in-law, Eugene Hess, Norbert “Bud” (Kathleen) Hockerman, and Donald (Debra) Hockerman; and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Esther Marotz; his beloved wife, Shirley; his brother, John Marotz; his sister, Lynette Hess; and his brother-in-law, Vernon (Barbara) Hockerman.

A memorial service for Richard Marotz will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Westfield. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church. Rev. Jesse Davis will officiate and private family inurnment will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Town of Springfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Westfield, P.O. Box 397, Westfield, WI 53964.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com