Richard “Dick” Vajgrt

Richard “Dick” Vajgrt of Port Washington, a beloved husband, father, brother and friend, left this world on Sept. 15, 2026, at the age of 85. Dick lived a life filled with integrity, joy and an unwavering commitment to sharing his gifts with others.

Dick was born in Oshkosh on July 27, 1941, the son of Fred and Mary (nee Cihlar) Vajgrt. 

He graduated from Oshkosh High School before earning an associate’s degree at Oshkosh Technical InstituteOn Sept. 5, 1964, Dick was united in marriage with the love of his life, Bernice Lueck, at St. John Catholic Church in Oshkosh. The couple lived in Milwaukee before moving to Port Washington in 1968.

Dick was a dedicated employee of We Energies, having devoted nearly four decades of his life to the company from 1967 until his retirement in 2003.

Dick volunteered his musical talents, alongside his wife Bernice, at St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, St. Peter’s of Alcantara Church, for 48 years. After answering a notice in the bulletin looking for a musician, Dick provided music for the 11:45 a.m. Mass. That Mass eventually led to the founding of the Order of Guitar Players (O.G.P.) youth group. This group involved more than 100 youth over the years! Dick and Bernice became integral members of St. Peter’s Adult Folk Group. Their harmonies not only brought joy to the lives of those who attended Mass, but also enriched the lives of countless residents at the local nursing homes in Port Washington, where the couple performed regularly.

Beyond music, Dick was a man of many talents. He studied various martial arts, including tae kwon do, karate, judo and tai chi,  and was an active member of the Port Washington Senior Center. 

Dick and Bernice enjoyed camping, first in tents and later in their RV, and roamed all 50 states on their adventures. His love of jazz music also led the couple to yearly vacations in New Orleans, always staying within walking distance of the music. 

Dick embraced life with laughter and fun, never missing an opportunity to bring a joyful noise unto the Lord. Family and friends will long remember his infectious smile, warmth and the way he filled every room with laughter. 

Dick is survived by his beloved wife Bernice Vajgrt, their son David (Stefanie Masters) Vajgrt and daughter Maya (formerly known as JuLee) Vajgrt, his brother Robert (Barbara) Vajgrt, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Mary Vajgrt and brothers Ronald (the late Sandra), Donald (the late Sue) and Roger Vajgrt.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, at St. John XXIII Parish, St. Peter of Alcantara Church, 1800 N. Wisconsin St., Port Washington. Father Matt Kirk will preside over the Mass. The family will greet visitors at the church from 4 p.m. until Mass begins at 6 p.m. Anyone who sang with Dick’s group is invited to join the choir for the Mass.

Dick will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Port Washington the next day.  

Memorials, if desired, may be made in Dick’s name to the Food Pantry Inc. of Port Washington or the Port Washington Senior Center.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.

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Ozaukee Press

Wisconsin’s largest paid circulation community weekly newspaper. Serving Port Washington, Saukville, Grafton, Fredonia, Belgium, as well as Ozaukee County government. Locally owned and printed in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

125 E. Main St.
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