Richard "Dick" Milheiser

Richard (Dick) Charles Milheiser, aka Mr. Bud, of Altoona, WI, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, just three days shy of his 73rd birthday.

Born on August 24, 1952, in Neenah, WI, Dick dedicated his life to creativity, teaching, and family. For over 30 years, he inspired students as an art teacher at Altoona High School. Following retirement, he continued to share his passion for pottery by founding his “happy place” - Claymore Pottery at Banbury Place. There, he became known for his beautifully hand-thrown ceramics and his beloved flock of chickens.

Dick will be remembered as a kind, patient, and witty soul – an artist at heart, and family man above all. He looked forward to his time spent with his Wednesday morning men's breakfast crew, golf with his long-time buddies, family vacations, and any time spent up north on the Chippewa Flowage.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart, Jane Ann (Nebel) Milheiser. During their 50 years together they had two daughters, Abigale (Jim) Day and Samantha (Bruce) Heytens; and four grandchildren, Keason Seyller, Brady Day, Ellie Day and Camden Heytens. He is also survived by his siblings Elizabeth Milheiser, Dan (Tootie) Milheiser and Scott (Jennie) Milheiser. Dick was preceded in death by his father, James Milheiser, his mother Dorothy Milheiser and his sister, Diane Becker.

Dick proudly supports Home 4 Healing, serving patients and their families in Rochester, Minnesota to build a foundation of hope, healing, and housing for stem cell transplant and blood cancer patients. Please consider a donation in his honor http://home4healing.org

A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, September 14, 2025 at West Creek Event Center S7650 WI-37, Eau Claire, WI 54701 from 1:00 pm –5:00 pm.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com. Hulke Family Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements. 

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