William "Bill" Joseph Lee Richter

William “Bill” Richter age 40 of New Hampton, IA died Thursday, October 8, 2026 unexpectedly at his home.

Friends may greet the family from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026 at Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton.  Following the visitation on Monday the Chickasaw County Firefighter Association Honor Guard will hold a short service outside the funeral home.

Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton has been entrusted with arrangements.

William Richter, known affectionately to many as Bill, was born on December 13, 1985, in Waterloo, to Larry and Linda (Short) Richter, and he lived a life marked by hard work, generosity, and devotion to the people and community he loved.

Bill was a proud graduate of New Hampton High School, and he carried the values of that upbringing with him throughout his life. He was the kind of man who believed in showing up, doing the job well, and helping wherever he was needed. For 20 years, he worked in maintenance for New Hampton Community Schools, where his steady presence, practical skills, and dependable nature made a lasting difference. Whether he was repairing equipment, solving a problem, or taking on a task others might overlook, Bill did his work with quiet pride and a strong sense of responsibility.

In addition to his work with the schools, Bill devoted 12 years of service as a volunteer firefighter. That commitment reflected the selfless way he lived his life. He understood the importance of service and was always willing to answer the call when others needed help. His willingness to lend a hand extended far beyond his official roles. He was the kind of person family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers could count on without hesitation.

Bill’s life was deeply enriched by the love of his family. He was engaged to his fiancée, Tabitha Drewelow, for six years, and together for a total of 12.  Their story was one that many would remember with a smile. The two met after Tabitha received a message on Facebook that simply read, “Hello.” From that simple beginning grew a meaningful and lasting relationship built on love, laughter, and shared life. Bill proposed to Tabitha in the kitchen of their home, surrounded by the kids, in a moment that reflected the warmth and closeness of the family they had built together.

He found great joy in the everyday moments of life at home. Bill loved bonfires in the yard, caring for the animals, and working on vehicles and equipment. He enjoyed figure 8 races, swap meets, and auctions, and he appreciated the satisfaction that came from fixing, building, and keeping things running. He took a genuine interest in his children’s lives and was proud to follow their wrestling, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts activities, and 4H. He was always present, always supportive, and always ready to encourage those he loved.

Bill was known for being selfless and handy, but those words only begin to describe him. He was also dependable, kind, and humble. He did not seek attention for the good he did, and he often gave his time and energy freely without expecting anything in return. If the school needed something, Bill would do it. If someone needed help, Bill would be there. He had a gift for making life easier for others, and he used that gift generously throughout his years.

Those who knew Bill will remember his strong work ethic, his willingness to help, and the steady way he cared for the people and places around him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and quiet strength that will continue to be felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His life was one of meaningful contribution, and his memory will remain a source of comfort and admiration to his family, friends, and community. 

Bill is survived by his father Larry Richter of New Hampton; Fiance Tabitha Drewelow of New Hampton; sons Carter Drewelow and Tucker Richter of New Hampton; daughters Harper and Denver Richter of New Hampton; brother Chris (Sara) Onken of New Hampton; sisters Michelle Hutzell of Fredericksburg and Angela Onken; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Linda (Short) Richter; and a brother Larry Lee Richter Jr in infancy.

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