Richard J. Frisk

Frisk, Richard J (Dick), 91, of Oakdale, MN passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family on May 27th, 2025.

Richard Frisk was born on December 21, 1933, to William and Rosella Frisk. The only son among five siblings, he was raised on the East Side of St. Paul. After graduating from the former Washington High School, Richard proudly served in the U.S. Navy as a Cryptographic Security Translator, stationed at Pearl Harbor. Following his honorable discharge in 1954, he dedicated 40 years to a career as a Utility Designer with Northern States Power Company.

In 1964, Richard married his true love and lifelong companion, Bonnie Ulstad. Together, they made their first home on East Ivy, overlooking the golf course. They raised two daughters, Sheri and Mary Jo, with unwavering love and devotion. Throughout their 44 years of marriage, Richard and Bonnie cherished a life filled with the warmth of family, wonderful friends, neighborhood gatherings, dinner parties, golf trips, and nights out together.

Richard was a lifelong athlete with a deep passion for sports. In high school, he excelled as a hockey player, shining in the MN State Tournament. He later spent many years playing Men’s Fastpitch Softball, throwing strikes in bowling leagues, with his greatest life passion being golf.

Grandpa was known for his unwavering love and dedication to his family, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and pride in those he cherished most. He found his greatest joy in watching his children and grandchildren grow, learn, and thrive. Nothing brought him more happiness than being surrounded by his loved ones—sharing stories, offering wisdom, and celebrating every milestone with a proud heart.

He was a source of strength and encouragement, always quick with a smile, a story, or “you have to have a plan” to move in the right direction. His pride in his family was evident in every word he spoke and every action he took. He will be greatly missed and will always live in our hearts.

Richard is survived by his daughters Sheri Rosenthal (Michael), Mary Jo Bruce (Jonny Green) and his 6 grandchildren Jami Rosenthal, Jacob Rosenthal, Haley Rosenthal, Mason Bruce (Abbey Potter), Charlie Bruce, Owen Bruce, great-granddaughter Eliza Bruce; sisters, Pat Johnson and Delores Anderson; and sister in-laws Sandy Lisko and Cheryl Burke. Preceded in death by his wife Bonnie Frisk; parents, William and Rosella Frisk; sister, Beverly Feldman; sister Joyann Pitzen; brother-in laws, Dennis Ulstad, Jerry Burke, Gene Pitzen, Lonnie Johnson, Ray Anderson; niece, Kristine Johnson-Sauer and nephew, Mike Anderson.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday June 3rd, 4:00pm to 6:00pm, at O’Halloran & Murphy (8700 Valley Creek Rd, Woodbury, MN 55125) and 1 hour prior to start of service at church. Funeral service to be held on Wednesday, June 4th, at 11:00am at Eastern Heights Lutheran Church (616 Ruth St, St Paul, 55119). Private family interment at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. 

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