Richard “Dick” D. Waage, 76, rural Hutchinson passed away on Friday, September 20, 2024, at Harmony River Living Center in Hutchinson from glioblastoma brain cancer. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Sunday, November 3, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Art’s Place in Hutchinson with interment at a later date in Oakland Cemetery in Hutchinson. Memorials preferred to Wounded Warriors, DAV in Hutchinson, Heart of Minnesota Animal Shelter, Allina Hospice Hutchinson or to donor’s choice.
 Richard “Dick” Duane Waage was born on August 13, 1948, in Mankato. He was the son of Robert and Anna “Louise” (Stiel) Waage. Dick was baptized as an infant and later confirmed in his faith. He was a graduate of Mankato West High School, class of 1966. Dick continued his education at Mankato State University with a degree in Criminal Justice. He furthered his education with an appointment to the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.
 Dick entered active military service in the United States Navy on August 9, 1966. He served his country during the Vietnam War at the Kingsville Naval Air Station in Texas and aboard the aircraft carrier the USS Ranger. He received an Honorable Discharge on June 6, 1969, and had achieved the rank of Aviation Structural Mechanic (Hydraulic) Petty Officer 3rd Class.
 On May 27, 1978, Dick was married to Nancie Pittman at Peace Lutheran Church in Hutchinson. Their marriage was blessed with two sons, Matthew and Michael. They shared 46 years of marriage.
 Dick was a member of Hutchinson Police Department for 26 years, beginning in 1972, as Juvenile Officer. He retired in 1998 as a Detective Lieutenant.
 Over the years Dick owned two local businesses; Gander Ridge Guns and North Country Sales. He was a member of the VFW Post 906 and Pheasants Forever.
 Dick enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially walleye fishing, most enjoyably with Matt.
 His grandchildren became his ultimate pride and joy.
 Blessed be his memory.
 Dick is survived by his wife Nancie Waage; son Matthew Waage and his wife Samantha; grandchildren, Erik and Freya Waage; brother Jim Waage; brother-in-law, Jeff Pittman; nephews, Joshua (Tanya) Pittman and John (Lauren) Waage; nieces, Kimberly (Scott) Debilzen, Katherine Pittman (Cody Kowalczyk), Amanda Pittman; many other beloved cousins, relatives and very dear friends.
 Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Anna “Louise” Waage; son, Michael Waage in 1984; father- and mother-in-law, Homer and LeOra Pittman.
 Arrangements by Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson. Online obituaries and guestbook available at www.hantge.com.