Ronald D. Richards
Ronald D. Richards
Ronald D. Richards
November 1, 1941 – May 28, 2013
Eddyville, Iowa | Age 71
Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather
Ronald D Richards, 71, of Eddyville died Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at the Mahaska Health Partnership Hospital in Oskaloosa. He was born November, 1, 1941, in Mahaska County to Delbert and Leona Shipp Richards. As a child, Ron resided in rural Eddyville. He graduated from the Eddyville High School with the class of 1959, and later earned his bachelor degree from Buena Vista. He was married to Sandra Glosser September 27, 1964, in Blakesburg, Iowa. To this union three children were born, Rhonda, Tracy and Valerie. He and his wife have lived in Eddyville for 43 years. He worked in the auto body field for 13 years before becoming an automotive tech instructor at Indian Hills Community College for 27 years, retiring in 2004. He actively served his community as a member of the Jaycees, city council, and as mayor. He also served on many committees while teaching at Indian Hills. Early on Ron enjoyed slow pitch soft ball and golf. Throughout his life he was an avid hunter. Ron was a history enthusiast and loved the Wild West.
His family includes his wife of over 48 years Sandra Richards of Eddyville; three daughters and their husbands, Rhonda and Bob Otting of Illinois City, IL. Tracy and Todd Mattix of Indianola, IA. and Valerie and Steve Van Maanen of Oskaloosa; Eight grandchildren, Trafton, Hannah, and Grant Otting, Shelby and Lydia Mattix, and Kaden, Gerrit, and Leah Van Maanen; a sister Debra (& David) Bahr of Eddyville and many nieces and nephews.
Ron was preceded in death by his father and mother and two brothers, Robert and Dennis.
A graveside service will be held at the Highland Cemetery in Eddyville on Friday, May 31, 2013 at 10:30 a.m with Reverend Dennis Durst officiating.
A procession will form at 10:10 a.m. at the First Christian Church in Eddyville for those wishing to go to the cemetery. As was his wishes no visitation is planned. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Eddyville library or Eddyville Parks and Recreation.
