Richard "Dick" Bestor

We are sad to share that Richard “Dick” Bestor, age 82, passed away August 1, 2024 due to injuries suffered in a bike accident. He was born October 24, 1941 to Harvey and Joan Bestor in Fond du Lac, where he lived all of his life. Dick enjoyed a lifetime of participating and watching sports with his three younger brothers, Bob (Mary), Bill ( Mary), and Joe (Cindy). He had a good connection with all of his nieces and nephews. 

Dick will be remembered by many former students from Sabish and Theisen Middle Schools where he served as principal. In addition to his successful career in education, Dick was also an accomplished basketball referee who worked his way up to Division 1 officiating. He was rewarded for his accomplishments when inducted into the Wisconsin Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. 

Dick was a tremendous athlete who played many sports with both skill and heart. He was also inducted into the Fond du Lac Softball Hall of Fame in 2000. His love of fitness took him to the YMCA everyday where he will be missed by both his workout and cribbage friends. 

 Mourning his loss are his three daughters, Julie Smedberg, Mary (Scott) Peeples, and Nancy (Chris) Gouin. He was a proud grandpa to Andy (Angie), Erica, Ria, Jenna, Tyler, and Kyle. He enjoyed his great-grandchildren, Jaydin, Brynlee, Brystal, and Preston. 

 Visitation will be held Thursday, August 8, 2024 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Holy Family Church, 271 Fourth Street Way in Fond du Lac. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 PM at the church.

Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com