Richard Jon Bjerk

8/31/1936-1/9/2026

Richard Jon Bjerk, 89, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026. Richard was born on August 31, 1936, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Robert Bjerk and Jessie Krahn. He graduated from high school and went on to proudly serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, where he dedicated 12 years and one day of honorable service.

During his military career, Richard served as a lineman and spent 11 months and 27 days in Vietnam, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5) by the end of his service. He was awarded numerous honors for his dedication and bravery, including the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960), Army Commendation Medal, an additional Bronze Star, and an Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster.

Following his military service, Richard continued his career as a lineman, retiring from AT&T after many years of hard work. He later volunteered for eight years at Advent Health Hospital in Sebring, Florida, where he served as a driver for patients and visitors. Known for his playful spirit and love of teasing, he was affectionately nicknamed “Trouble” by those who knew and loved him there.

Richard was a lifetime member of the American Legion and lived in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, before retiring with his beloved wife to Sebring, Florida. For the last 18 months of his life, he resided in Hardinsburg, Florida.

An avid motorcyclist, Richard owned five Indian motorcycles and a Can-Am, riding passionately until the age of 85, when vision loss left him legally blind. His love for the open road never faded.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Ann Bjerk, whom he loved deeply.

He is survived by his son, Robert Bjerk (Anna “Nee” Phelps Bjerk); his grandson, Matthew Bjerk; his granddaughter, Melanie Bjerk (Elijah Mabry); and his great-granddaughter, Lily Mabry, who brought him great joy.

Cremation was chosen and Magnolia Cremations of Jeffersonville, Indiana has been entrusted with the arrangements.