Richard Kroeger

Richard Arlo Kroeger was born on January 1, 1951, in Denison, Iowa, to Arlo and Daisy (Wright) Kroeger. He was recognized as the Charter Oak Jackpot Baby for 1951, as he was the first baby of the new year connected to the Charter Oak community. He attended school in Denison and graduated from Denison High School.

Following graduation, Richard began working at Cesh Welding in Denison. On September 8, 1973, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Horst in Denison. Three children were born to this union: Ricky, Connie, and Jason. Richard later worked in the smokehouse at Dubuque Packing Company for 18 years before beginning a career as a welder with Petersen Manufacturing.

On April 12, 1996, Richard married JoAnn (Hike) Wiese in Denison. Together, they shared a love of the open road. After JoAnn earned her CDL, the couple became over-the-road truck drivers, traveling the country with their beloved dogs, Buddy and Mollie. They also enjoyed attending races, spending time with family, and relaxing together while watching classic westerns, especially Gunsmoke.

Richard passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the age of 75.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arlo and Daisy Kroeger; his wife, JoAnn Kroeger; his sister, Ruth (Bill) Wielenman; and his brother-in-law, Orville Lamaak.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Ricky Kroeger, Connie Porter, Jason (Kristi) Kroeger, Steve (Darlene) Wiese, Donna Pulido, and Kristine Wiese; four grandchildren: Tenessa Rowedder, Cassandra Hollander, Jessica Hollander, and Skylar Kroeger; eight great-grandchildren; his sister, Carol Lamaak; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

A private family burial was held in the Merle Hay Cemetery near Glidden. Family will greet friends during a visitation and light luncheon on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Boulders Event Center in Denison.