Richard “Rich” Lee Betsinger of La Crosse, age 68, passed away peacefully from complications of cancer on June 1, 2012 at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center.

He was born on June 22, 1943 to Richard and Constance Betsinger. He married Shirley Sachs on December 3, 2005 in Wesley United Methodist Church. In Rich’s early years, he played guitar with Ronnie & The Starfires and with The Crescendos. For more than 30 years he was a sheet-rocker with his brother Jeff. He enjoyed watching science fiction movies, and listening to Pink Floyd. As he neared retirement, he developed an interest in woodworking, donating for 10 years to the West Salem Cancer Walk.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; children, Troy Betsinger, Chad (Heather) Betsinger, and Carley (Bob) Radecki; stepson, Paul (Shawna) Sachs; grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Tate, James, Caylin, Broden, Lincoln, Kiera, Jamey, and Taylor; brothers, Philip (Cindy), Jeff (Lisa), Brett (Myra), and David (Lisa); sister, Lisa (Angelo) Costa; aunts, Elizabeth Bulger, Esther Betsinger, and Dorothy Daily; uncle Robert (Nancy) Olson; former wife, Sharon (Tom) Fitzpatrick; many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends; and his dog, Charlie.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Kyle Lee and Dr. Roger Kwong at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center for their special care.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 7, 2012 at 11:00 A. M. at Wesley United Methodist Church, 721 King Street, La Crosse. The Rev. Ellen Rasmussen will officiate. There will be a visitation two hours prior to the service at the Church.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.