On Friday, September 26th, 2025, our father, Richard Lemke, was involved in a serious motorcycle accident while riding home from our weekly family dinner at his wife’s parents’ house. As he came around a bend on Highway 67, a deer crossed his path, causing a crash. Within a minute, another driver came upon the scene and found Dad lying on the side of the road, with his motorcycle further down the highway.

He was transported by ambulance to Genesis East in Davenport and then airlifted to the University of Iowa Hospital due to the severity of his injuries. He is currently unconscious and being treated for a serious brain injury.

Our dad is a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He spent his career in law enforcement, fervently working to protect the community from drug dealers, cartel members, and others who threatened public safety. In retirement, he has devoted himself to his family, watching his grandkids grow, volunteering for those in need, and sharing his passions for food, cars, and motorcycles with anyone willing to chat — whether in person or in Facebook groups like LeClaire People and Quad City Food Lovers.

This accident has turned our family’s world upside down. While we are holding onto hope for his recovery, we know the road ahead will be long and difficult. As of Monday, September 29th, Dad has not yet been able to follow commands, but he does respond to pain stimuli in certain areas. His injuries are extensive, but we continue to hold onto hope — because right now, hope is all we have.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Our father does have health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal, which we are thankful for. However, even with coverage, there will be significant out-of-pocket expenses, including:

Ambulance and air ambulance transport between hospitals

Deductibles, copays, and coinsurance costs

Rehabilitation and long-term care needs that insurance may not fully cover

Everyday financial needs while our mom focuses on his recovery

Home and vehicle modifications that may be necessary when he is able to return

The financial strain of this situation is overwhelming. By coming together, we can ease this burden and allow our mom to focus on what truly matters — being by Dad’s side.

How You Can Help

We are asking for support in any way you can:

Donate — every amount makes a difference

Share — spreading this page helps reach more people who may want to support

Pray and encourage — we deeply appreciate every message of hope

Our Goal

We have set an initial goal of $50,000 to help cover immediate medical and care-related expenses. As we learn more about his ongoing needs, we may adjust this goal.

Any funds raised in excess of needs will go toward motorcycle safety improvements and training, including a future goal to add lighting along Highway 67 between Bettendorf and LeClaire, a stretch of road that has tragically led to many accidents.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with our family during this extremely difficult time. Your generosity, prayers, and support mean more than words can say.

With love and sincere appreciation,

The Lemke Family