Rich was born August 24, 1959, to Edward (d. 1967) and Lorraine (d. 2009) Greene. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Dennis (d. 2007). Rich is survived by his husband and partner since April 25, 1997, Gregory Flegel, his brother Edward (Christine) Greene; and his sister Denise (Robert) Pick. He is further survived by a deeply cherished chosen family, as well as many nieces and nephews.
He received professional training from MBTI (Milwaukee Business Training Institute). His career in technology and business management included Director of Software Engineering at CNR Health, IT Director for YWCA of Greater Milwaukee (related to Welfare to Work), and Director of Operations for the Greater Milwaukee Committee. He also provided technology and business consulting for nonprofits and mid-sized businesses under RG Consulting. As the first Circuit Rider for the Nonprofit Management Fund, he created a checklist and strategies for nonprofits to upgrade and safeguard their technology. He served on nonprofit boards, including most recently as treasurer for Mental Health America of Wisconsin.
Rich enjoyed technology, photography, nature, and his dogs. He was constantly amazed by human ingenuity in science or the arts, from the space telescope to the string progression in a symphony. He was calmed by the majesty of nature, visualizing the sun and tide on a Panama beach to lower blood pressure. One of his greatest triumphs was capturing the full eclipse of the sun in photography and video, and to witness the eerie earth during that time.
He had an uncanny ability to quickly develop deep relationships. Quick to laughter, tears, anger and compassion. Because of his unbounded curiosity, a conversation with Rich could lead to anything from politics to religion, from history to drag queens. Tales of his life experience were told without shame or pride, but to make connection.
The funeral will be at Wisconsin Memorial Park on Friday September 25th. Visitation commences from 1 – 2pm; followed by a funeral service from 2 – 3pm; concluding with the burial at 3pm. Find his online memorial for any updates and to read and post memories or photos: https://everloved.com/life-of/richard-greene/.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity in memory of Rich. Some of his favorite charities include Street Angels, Great Lakes Dry Hootch, the Wisconsin Humane Society, Cream City Foundation, and the ACLU.
