Richard Robben

Richard Robben, 72, of Staples died Wednesday, February 17, 2010 in Motley. Visitation is on Sunday, from 4 - 6 P.M. at the Brenny Funeral Home, with Rosary at 5:30 and Parrish Prayers at 5:45. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, Feb 22 at 11:00 A.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Staples with Father Ron Schmelzer officiating. Burial will follow the service in Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Staples.
Richard Henry Robben was born on August 1, 1937 in Bertha Village to Henry and Augusta (Griep) Robben. He grew up in the Staples area and graduated from Staples High School. Richard served in the National Guard for eight years. On July 13, 1963 he was united in marriage to Stella Bratsch at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Staples. He and Stella owned and operated a dairy farm Southwest of Staples. They have also raised beef cattle, hogs and sheep. He was a lifetime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and also a member of the Farmers Union. Richard enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, fishing and camping. He also enjoyed being at the sale barn and having coffee with his friends at the cafe.

Richard is survived by his wife, Stella; daughter, Tammy (Steve) Mumm of Staples; sons, Tim (Joanie) of Motley; Chris (Julie) of Motley; Joe (Lori) of Staples and Dan (Heather) of Staples; fifteen grandchildren and six great  grandchildren; two sisters Rita (Gary) Stracek and Stella (Dave) Fonteyn; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by son, David; daughter, Mary Ann; his parents; brother, Ray; and nephew Jeff Fonteyn.