Richard Reese, age 82, of Bemidji, Minnesota, passed away on January 15, 2026, at the Stewartville Care Center.

Richard was born on June 9, 1943, in Windom, Minnesota, to Arnold and Lucille (Mead) Reese. He graduated from Windom High School in 1961 and continued his education at Dunwoody Institute, where he earned a degree as an electronic technician.

Richard married Elizabeth "Betty" Becker, and together they shared 60 years of marriage and raised two children. The family lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where Richard worked for Rockwell International. In 1978, they returned to Minnesota after purchasing a resort on Leech Lake. Richard and Betty owned and operated the resort for 19 years, creating lasting memories for family, guests, and the community. After selling the resort, Richard continued doing what he loved most, guiding and sharing his deep knowledge and passion for the outdoors for many more years.

Richard was fun-loving, hardworking, and deeply dedicated to his family and his work. He loved classic country music, was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan, and had a lifelong passion for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Bear guiding held a special place in his heart. He also enjoyed going on walks, but above all else, Richard cherished time spent with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Betty; his son, Michael (Diana) Reese of Rochester, Minnesota; grandchildren Tanya Vizenor and Brent Vizenor of Cass Lake, Minnesota, and Ian and Josiah Reese of Rochester; two great-grandchildren, Emi and Thomas; his special nephew, Jim Peacock; his sister, Kathy Gunderson of Farmington, Minnesota; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his daughter, Shilagh Reese Vizenor, on December 5, 2022, and by his parents, Arnold and Lucille Reese.

A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 26, 2026 at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 869 7 ^th Ave. SE, Rochester, MN with Pastor Adam Koglin officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until time of the service. A celebration of Richard's life will also be held in Bemidji at a later date. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.mackenfuneralhome.com