Richard "Dick" L. Bachman

Richard "Dick" L. Bachman

Denver, Colo.

Richard Lee Bachman passed away Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, of cancer, after a brief illness. Those left to mourn him are his sons, Ryan (Lisa) and Brad; his daughter, Teri (Dave Petersen); as well as his wife, Alice; his granddaughter, Hannah; and stepgrandchildren, Gwen Leidy and Aidan Elder.

Dick was born on Sept. 2, 1937, at his grandmother’s home in rural Fayette County, Iowa, the son of Ernest and Leona Bachman. He grew up on the family farm near Maynard, graduated from Maynard High in 1955, and from Upper Iowa University in 1960. During this time he and his first wife Wilma became parents to Brad and Teri. He received his Master’s Degree from the University of Iowa. His postgraduate work was done at the University of Northern Iowa.

He began his teaching career in Clarence, Iowa, where he eventually became principal. In 1972 he married Alice Jochum, another teacher. In 1976 they became the parents of Ryan. Dick then served as principal in New Hartford and superintendent in Urbana, Edgewood-Colesburg, and eventually back in Clarence in the newly formed North Cedar Schools. Following that portion of his career, he served as Director of Teacher Education at Upper Iowa University.

In 2001 Dick and Alice moved to Denver, Colo., to experience city life. Dick came out of retirement to teach math for six more years at Cherry Creek Academy. He followed this up with his dream job, working for the Colorado Rockies. Still not ready to really retire, he volunteered in the emergency department at St. Joseph’s Hospital. A man of great character, personal integrity and modesty despite his many accomplishments, Dick showed his kindness and gentle spirit to all he met.

As well as his wife and children, Dick is survived by his three siblings, Ann Chapman, Joan Carter and Kevin Bachman, and many nieces and nephews. Per his wishes, no services will be held at this time, but a Celebration of Life will be held in Iowa in the fall. Condolences c/o Ryan Bachman, P.O. Box 181013, Denver, CO 80218. Memorials to the St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, Mont., 59004.