Lasell, Richard J.

Richard J. Lasell, 86, died Thursday, May 5, 2011, at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha. Services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 10, at Echo Hill Presbyterian Church, 9000 C Ave., Marion. Visitation will be Monday from 4 to 7 p.m., with a time for sharing memories at 6:30 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home. Inurnment will be at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.

Surviving family are a daughter, Anna Marie Wehr with her husband, Daniel; grandchildren, Anna Beth and Alex; and sister, Doris Rakovan.

He was preceded in death by his wife, JoAnn; parents; and brother, Ray.

Having lived a happy and fulfilling life, Richard was born Dec. 4, 1924, in Des Moines, the beloved son of Joe and Ruth Marie Lasell. He married JoAnn Semich on Aug. 27, 1960, in Des Moines.

Richard attended Iowa State in civil engineering, but was a true Iowa Hawkeye fan and enjoyed tailgating with family and friends at Hawkeye games.

Starting as an industrial product salesman, he was promoted to general manager for Globe Machinery. He then started and was owner/president of Linn Air Conditioning, where he developed lifelong friendships. Richard was devoted to serving his country, having served in the European Theatre during World War II. He volunteered for the VA for many years helping to enroll veterans in the VA Medical Program because “the veterans deserve it.” He was a life member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS and longtime member of Rotary Club.

He was a committed husband, loving father and great friend to many. He cherished every moment with his grandchildren who love him dearly. He leaves a void in the hearts of many.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Richard's name to which donations will be made to Echo Hill Presbyterian Church and the American Diabetes Association.

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