Roll Call Tribute

Richard L. Pflugfelder 

March 31, 1943 - July 3, 2024 

Richard Locks Pflugfelder, age 81, of Lakewood, CO unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

Richard was born on March 31, 1943 to the late Robert Edward and Margaret Jane (Locks) Pflugfelder in Chicago, IL. He was raised in Milwaukee and graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s degree. Richard went on to serve in the Peace Corps for four years and for the U.S. Army for two years during the Vietnam War. After proudly serving his country, he attended and received his PhD in Food Science at Texas A&M University.

Richard carried on the family legacy of working in the Brewing industry at first as a flavor chemist at Schlitz Brewing Company and later for Coors Brewing Company in Colorado where he is credited for a patent that pioneered the colorless malt beverage industry. Richard had a love for music and singing. He had a beautiful voice and he loved singing A cappella, with the quartets he was honored to be a member of.

He is preceded in death by his wife Arlene Abady who he loved so dearly. He is survived by his step-daughters: Jody Orellana and her son Avi, and Lauren Abady; his sister: Ann (Jim) Wieringa; his niece: Tara (Jeff) Warren and their sons Ben and Alex; his nephew: Steve (Emily) Wieringa their daughters Lydia and Lana; and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family suggests memorials to the donor’s charity of choice in Richard’s honor. Services are entrusted to Roby Funeral Home, 346 Ave. A, Plattsmouth, NE 68048, robyfuneralhome.com.