Richard C. Suelflow

Richard Clarence Suelflow, a man whose humor was as timeless as his love for the Boston Red Sox and the Green Bay Packers, passed away on October 28, 2024, at the age of 83. Born in Appleton, WI to Leila Van Heuklon Suelflow and Clarence Richard Suelflow on August 14, 1941, he took his final, peaceful breath in Ellicott City, MD. His departure was due to congestive heart failure, but his heart was anything but failing when it came to love and laughter.

His heart belonged to one woman, his wife Allie Suelflow, with whom he shared 55 years of laughter and love before she died July 2024. A family man through and through, Richard's legacy lives on in his daughter Kennette (Guv) Mitchell, and sons Kenneth (Rebecca) Brueggeman and Rondal Brueggeman, special granddaughter, Amanda Forrest, as well as many nieces and nephews. His brother Dennis (Kathi) Suelflow, who predeceased him, no doubt is waiting to catch up on old times.

Richard graduated from Fox Valley Lutheran High School and embarked on a longstanding career in retail. After working with his parents’ business, Suelflow’s Travel Goods, early in his career, he managed Pah-low’s Luggage and Gifts until 1984. He ventured out again to re-open Suelflow’s Travel Goods with Allie where, as the charismatic owner, Richard packed a lot of life into every sale. He eventually brought that same flair to his time at Prange's Department Store and PDQ Convenience Store until retiring in 2015. Richard and Allie then moved to Ellicott City, Maryland to spend their golden years near their daughter and son-in-law.

Beyond the retail world, he loved supporting his family in all endeavors, be it sports, jobs, or school activities. His support was endless. His community spirit was further evident through his active involvement in the Lions Club and, later in life, in the Kiwanis Club of Ellicott City. Richard was also a faithful member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church of Ellicott City, where he formed lasting relationships within the congregation.

An avid sports fan, Richard's loyalty to the Boston Red Sox and the Green Bay Packers was as steadfast as his love for his family. He approached each game with the same enthusiasm he had for life—full of hope, excitement, and the occasional shout at the TV. Friends and family will remember Richard for his quiet wit and reflective wisdom, qualities that endeared him to many throughout his life.

Those who knew Richard will remember him as the epitome of kindness, wisdom, and gentleness. As we bid farewell to Richard, let's honor his memory by living as he did—with open hearts, helping hands, and a joke at the ready to brighten someone's day. His presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his kind and gentle spirit will be felt for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard's memory can be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church of Ellicott City, 3695 Rogers Avenue, Ellicott City, MD, 21043, where his legacy of faith and community service will continue to be honored.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Richard C. Suelflow, please visit our Tree Store.