Richard Robert Stalbrink, Sr., 78 of LaCrosse, IN passed away Tuesday, March 7, 2023. He was born February 13, 1945 in LaPorte, IN to Fred and Viola (Schacht) Stalbrink. Richard spent his first career with the Indiana State Police Department for 34 years, retiring as a Captain. He then spent 10 years as Director of Transportation for LaPorte Community Schools. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 29 years and retired as a Major. After spending his careers battling Northwest Indiana winter weather, he and his wife Peggy enjoyed traveling and spending their winters in warmer climates. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in LaCrosse and the American Legion Post 92 in North Judson. Richard served as a 4-H Horse and Pony Leader and Volunteer with the LaPorte County Fair for many years. He also enjoyed being a part of the Michiana Seniors Golf Association. Richard will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend who will be deeply missed.
On September 4, 1965 at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in North Judson, Richard married Peggy Jean Dunn, who survives, along with their children: Richard (Amber) Stalbrink Jr. of LaPorte and Tracey (Roy) Cole of Westville; grandchildren: Richard Stalbrink III, Jessica Stalbrink, and Owen Cole; brother-in-law, Stan Sienkowski; and many loving extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Henry Stalbrink; and sister, Lora Sienkowski.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 16, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Moeller Funeral Home, 104 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN. The funeral service will begin on Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Prairie Trails Club, P.O. Box 72, North Judson, IN 46366 or the LaCrosse Indiana Public Library, 307 E. Main St., LaCrosse, IN 46348.
GUESTBOOK
Our deepest condolences to the Rich’s entire family. He was a true friend! A life lived full and always with honor!!! Rest In Peace Capt’n! -Patrick Calkins
My condolences to The Stalbrink Family. Rich was a professional. I was proud to have served the ISP under his command. Rest in peace Rich and you will be missed. -Joe D. Copeland P.E. 2793 ISP Retired
A great co-worker, supervisor and friend. I will really miss him. His family has my condolence & prayers. -Richard Ludlow, retired ISP.
I was very sorry to hear this, and I can't tell you how much it saddens me. I worked for Rich from the time he was a Sergeant through Captain. He was more than a boss, I considered him a friend and he will be missed. Peggy my thoughts and prayers are for you and your family. -Frank Midkiff
I am sorry to hear Rich passed away, I always enjoyed working with and for Rich. He was one of the best. Peace and Blessings to your family, -Steve VanDerAa
I was deeply saddened to see the passing of a man who engendered respect and friendship among those who served under him. My heartfelt sympathy to Peggy and the family. -Jack W. Bedan
Sending my deepest sympathy to Peggy and family. It was always such a pleasure to visit with you both when you stopped at the Pickin Palace to listen to some of our music. I will certainly miss my little visits with you and Rich. In my thoughts and prayers, always. -Bobbe Kersting
Heart felt condolences to the family, Rich was an example of what a man should be, a great father, friend and leader in his life careers. I am sure he will be high in the ranks in heaven. God's speed Soldier, and Trooper! -Mark H. Huffman
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in your time of sorrow. Richard Sr. left a long lasting positive mark on all that he accomplished. I can say I'm grateful for having been blessed to have been introduced and knowing him. Peace be with you my friend on your final 10-42. -Vern Hohnke
I was upset hearing that Rich had passed. We worked together in the early 70's at Dunes Park Post. He was a great guy to be around, I'll miss our 2-3 times a week at the Chesapeake Golf course. I'm sure Rich and Mike Snipes are playing today. My heart goes out to Peggy and the rest of Rich's family. He will be missed by all. -Donald King
My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Thank you for your service and your dedication. May you Rest In Peace. -Nora Werner
I was saddened to hear of Rich’s passing. Rich was my Battalion XO and mentor when he retired from the Army. Our best mentor sessions were over the hood of a Humvee. I thought of him often over the years, reflecting of lessons learned on his watch and the profound influence he had on my early career. I remember one session he had with two of us young lieutenants, forecasting which company commands we would each have. And while the Army reorganized and ruined his predictions, Rich would be proud to know that we toasted him almost 20 years later as those two lieutenants both eventually made lieutenant colonel. Thanks, Rich, for your mentorship and encouragement. You are missed, brother. THREE ROUNDS! -Warren Miller
