Richard T. Pliss

Richard T. Pliss, affectionately known as Dick, was born on February 24, 1937, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Bill and Helen Pliss. He passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on Thursday, September 21, 2023, in Greenfield, Wisconsin.

Dick was a devoted family man, survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Nancy (Loboda-Slawson) Pliss. His legacy continues through his son, David (Lynda) Pliss, and daughter, Lorelei Wolf. He was a proud brother to Carl (Judy) Pliss and Gregory (Mary Ann) Pliss, and a cherished uncle to William, Dan, Kelly, Sean and Charisse. He is also survived by his stepchildren: Wes Slawson, Wayne Slawson, Julie Rasmussen, and Linda Slawson. Dick was a doting grandfather to Amanda (Andy) Juza. He will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, numerous relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his late wife, Charlene.

Dick resided at Layton Terrace Senior Living in Greenfield, Wisconsin, having previously lived in Milwaukee and Olathe, Colorado. He was a proud graduate of Pulaski High School, class of 1955.

Dick was a dedicated member of St. Dominic Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin, and a former member of the Knights of Columbus. He had a successful career with Exxon/Mobil, managing two auto service centers in Milwaukee. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to enter into business partnerships with his lifelong friend, Rollie Janicki. Together, they owned two bowling alleys, Valley Park Lanes and The Rec Center, where Dick became quite the bowler, even scoring a 298 game. The pair also owned the Milwaukee Auto Center Body shop until Dick's retirement.

Dick's love for cars began in his youth, growing into a lifelong passion. He spent memorable summers at the family cottage on Okauchee Lake, where he became an avid water skier and even formed the Y-Knot Water Ski Club.

The Pliss family enjoyed many vacations in Colorado, a place that held a special place in Dick's heart. After the passing of his wife Charlene, he fulfilled their shared dream of moving to Montrose, Colorado. Later in life, he reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Nancy, and they married on June 11, 2004. Together, they enjoyed golfing, bocce ball, summers in Pewaukee, and their cottage on the lake in Neshkoro, Wisconsin. They also relished their winters in Mesa, Arizona.

Dick's life was marked by his dedication to his family, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his love for life's simple pleasures. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his loved.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at the Max Sass Funeral Home - Greenridge Chapel on Monday, October 2, 2023 from 10 AM until time of service at 12 noon. The family would like to thank Allay Hospice for the compassionate care they provided to Dick. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to St. Jude Children's Hospital.