Richard John Bouquet

Richard John Bouquet, age 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday October 12, 2023 at Ecumen Pathstone in Mankato, MN.

Memorial Service will be held on November 6, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with visitation one hour prior to the service from 1:00-2:00 p.m.  Northview-North Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.

Rich was born April 10, 1942 in the charming river town of Wabasha, MN to Bert and Dorothy (Miller) Bouquet.  Rich was a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and Friend to so many.

During his life’s journey, he worked for 27 years at IBM in Rochester, MN.  He is remembered for his “high energy, leadership, work ethic, enthusiasm and dedication to any task he undertook.” Post IBM Rich’s reputation and expertise led him to many other opportunities including CWC in Mankato MN, Imation in Woodbury MN and others.

That same enthusiasm, plus love, was very evident at home with his family.  A dedicated husband and father that was present for everything his kids were involved in and so supportive of everything they wanted to accomplish in life.  He wasn’t just a Dad, he was a friend always giving the best advice and teaching the lessons of life that would last forever.  Rich loved spending time in the wood shop working on projects from furniture to fireplace surrounds and everything in between, he cherished the time he could spend on the Mississippi River with family.  Rich and Karen made the perfect team in life.  They loved family, traveling together and had a shared interest in designing and building homes.  Rich is survived by his wife of over 58 years, Karen of Mankato; son, Mike Bouquet (Shelly) of Grand Rapids MN; daughter, Suzy Henriksen (Dana) of Mankato; granddaughter, Meghan (Matt) Collins and their son, Cooper of LeCenter MN; granddaughter Mykenzie (Taylor) Gross of St. Michael, MN.

He was so proud of the Bouquet Brothers.  Jim, Tom, John and Bern, such a tight knit group that stayed close throughout his life.  Rich loved their Brother Trips exploring America’s National  Parks and other destinations.

Rich was so loved and will be missed by many.  Love, like the ocean, continues beyond the horizon.

Memorial Contributions may be made to:

Saint Elizabeth Hospital Foundation

New Rehab and Wellness Care Center

In Memory of Rich Bouquet

1200 Grant Blvd W

Wabasha, MN 55981