Mr. Richard E. Krause, 79, (formerly of Racine) passed away at Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix on Sunday, October 19, 2008. He was born in Racine on June 17, 1929 to the late Eric and Margaret (nee: Wadewitz) Krause. On April 14, 1956, he married the former Jeanette C. Christman. She preceded him in death on September 4, 1987. Mr. Krause moved to Phoenix in 1999. He graduated from St. Catherine's High School and attended Dominican College. Mr. Krause worked for Western Publishing for over 30 years. He retired from Racine Tele-Cable. Mr. Krause was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Church and the Knights of Columbus. For many years he was known for his work as a referee for local high school and city league basketball; as well as a softball umpire. He was also an avid golfer, playing in numerous work and city leagues. However, Richard will most be remembered as a man who was outgoing, the life of the party and one who lived his life to the fullest. His survivors include his children, Terri (Dr. Kevin) Benson of Phoenix, AZ, Kevin (Diana) Krause, Michael (Sarah) Krause both of Racine; his grandchildren, Jackie, Danielle, Brendan and Brigid Benson, Alex and Sam Krause; his brother, Eugene Krause of Waukesha; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ralph (Rosie) Christman, Delores (Frank) Aiello, Donald (Mary) Christman all of Kenosha, Norman (Carol) Christman of Brookfield, WI and Jean (Dennis) Dragan of Racine as well as numerous nieces and nephews too numerous to mention. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Krause and sister-in-law, Donna Krause. Family and friends are invited to meet at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (2201 Northwestern Ave.) on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. for the celebration of his memorial mass with Rev. Ronald O. Crewe officiating. A private interment will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery. There will be time to meet with the family from 9:15 a.m. until 9:45 a.m.. Memorials in Richard's name have been suggested to the Jade Royale Home (Richard's residence in Arizona) 15640 N. 54th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85254. Richard's family wishes to thank the wonderful friends and caregivers at Jade Royal. They would especially like to recognize Gena, Gen, Teresa and Eryk. . The love and care given to their father and grandfather was immeasurable.