Richard “Rick” R. Lindberg, 65, Big Lake

April 8, 1952 - August 17, 2017

Richard R. Lindberg, age 65 of Big Lake, died Thursday, August 17 surrounded by his family at the VA Medical Center in St. Cloud. He was born in Minneapolis on April 8, 1952 to Richard and Dorothy (Hughes) Lindberg. When Rick was only 8, his mother died and left a significant void in the young family. Even in their grief Rick’s older sisters, Annette and Lezlie, stepped up to provide stability and “a mother’s care” when he needed it. Barbara joined the family after Richard married Beverly Trisler. When the children lost yet another mother just 5 years later, Rick was given the opportunity to join his big sisters in providing love and care to their youngest sibling. These difficult events brought the 4 siblings together in a special way. Rick was a feisty kid and easily encouraged to be silly by his sisters. He was known to get Barbie into shenanigans like any good big brother would.

Shortly after graduating from Osseo High School in 1971, Rick enlisted in the U.S. Army. He spent time in Germany during the Vietnam War and was proud to serve his country.

Rick met June Tolbers in February of 1976 and they made their home in Brooklyn Park. In 1983, they moved to Big Lake and were married on August 15, 1986. They enjoyed fishing together and visiting June’s children, Kirk and Toni, up at Breezy Point in the summer. Rick love to golf with “the guys” and was an avid Minnesota Viking’s fan. As a Machine Line Operator, he was a dedicated employee of Hoffman Engineering (now known as Pentair).

Since June’s death in 2011, Rick had felt rather lost. Rick and his sisters were a blessing to each other these last few years. When he was at his lowest, his sisters never left his side.

Rick will be deeply missed by his sisters, Annette (Rich) Bradford of Elk River, Lezlie (Jim) Wood of Cambridge, and Barb (Gerry) Steeves of Oglivie; 17 nephews and nieces; a host of other relatives and friends; and his canine companion, Princess.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dorothy; his stepmom, Beverly; his wife, June; and his nephew, Matthew Steeves.

A gathering of Rick’s family and friends will be held on Saturday, August 26 from 10-11AM with a Celebration of his life at 11AM at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Princeton. Interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, 763-389-1131.