Rita McKay Obituary January 14, 1953 - April 20, 2026

 Services for Rita McKay, 73, of Russell, will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. A visitation will be held prior to the service starting at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be held at the Russell Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association in Rita’s name.

Rita Rae McKay passed away April 20, 2026. She was born on January 14, 1953, to Everette and Halleen (DeWolf) McKay, the youngest of five children. Roger, Mildred, Ronny, Marilyn and Rita. Rita was born at home; in the same house she resided in until her passing.

In 1971, Rita graduated from Russell High school. After high school, she worked in the Russell School cafeteria. She enjoyed seeing all the kids come through the lunch line every day.

Rita’s favorite holiday was Christmas. She loved decorating the house and Christmas tree every year. She also enjoyed being present with nature, riding her bike, fishing, planting flowers and feeding the birds. She was known for planting a huge garden and maybe 30 plus tomato plants and lots of other vegetables. She liked to can tomato juice with her garden grown veggies.

Rita especially loved Elvis Presley, music and movies, watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and The Price Is Right. Every chance Rita got, she loved going to the casino. You knew if she won, as she would squeal (kind of loud). Of all things Rita loved, her favorite was her collie dog Laddie. He was her best buddy.

Rita was preceded in death by her parents, Everette and Halleen, brother, Roger, nephew, Kevin Trenary, and brother-in-law, John Guffey.

She is survived by her siblings: Mildred Guffey of Carlisle, Ronny (Patty) McKay of Chariton, Marilyn (Butch Vanderpool) Trenary of Chariton; nieces and nephews: Dennis (Dora) Guffey, Michael (Linda) Guffey, Dianna (Kirk) Abrahamson, Susan (Gregg) Gustafson, Brian (Karla) Trenary; great nieces and nephews: Alyssa (Josh) Hernandez, Laney and Kylie Abrahamson, Nate Guffey, Grant (Madeline) Gustafson, Ryan (Elsie) Gustafson, Mackenzie (Chris) Gustafson, Brady (Ashley) Trenary, Turner Trenary; great great nieces and nephews: Lucy and Lilah Hernandez, Huxon and Lily Trenary and Gates Gustafson.

James "Jim" Wright Obituary December 19, 1935 - March 30, 2026

James “Jim” Wright, 90, of Russell, passed away on, Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Lucas County Health Center in Chariton. Jim was born on December 19, 1935, at Yocom Hospital in Chariton, the oldest son of Earl and Isabel Wright. Many people also knew Jim as “Herbie” over the years, a name he got from hanging around his Uncle Herb.

Jim grew up on the family farm in eastern Lucas County. As a boy, he walked over a mile to country school every day and later graduated from Russell High School with the class of 1954. Growing up on the farm meant there was always work to be done, milking cows, raising crops, baling hay, and caring for cattle and hogs. Jim was not afraid of hard work and was something he would carry throughout his entire life.

On Easter Sunday, April 6, 1958, Jim married the love of his life, Judith Kuder at the Methodist Church in Corydon. The beginning of 68 wonderful years. Together they built their life on the family’s Century Farm where they raised their children, Gene and Mary. Jim never imagined raising his family anywhere else

 

While farming was his life’s work, Jim also had a strong passion for serving his community. In 1982, he was elected to the Lucas County Board of Supervisors, where he served for 18 years. He also gave his time and leadership to many organizations, including 10-15 Transit, the Southern Iowa Area Crime Commission, Lucas County Senior Citizens, Russell School Board, Lucas County Hospital Board, and the Chariton Valley REC Board, among others. For his years of dedication and service, he was honored with the Governor’s State Volunteer Award, a recognition that truly reflected the kind of man he was.

Jim loved sports, especially when it meant cheering on his kids and grandkids. He never missed a ballgame or dance recital. He was a loyal Iowa Hawkeyes fan and longtime season ticket holder, often joking that he’d seen his fair share of losing seasons. He also enjoyed following the St. Louis Cardinals, watching every ball game on T.V. In his quieter moments, you could often find him on a mower, taking pride in keeping the farm looking just right or helping care for the Chariton school grounds.

Faith was also a cornerstone throughout Jim’s life. He grew up attending Bethel Church near the farm and later became a devoted member of the Russell United Methodist Church, where he served and helped wherever he was needed

Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Judi; children, Gene (Paula) Wright, and Mary (Ed) Nichols; brother, Alvin Wright; grandchildren: Alison Wright, Ashley (Kevin) Wright Shannon, Jessica (Sean) Eikenberry, Alex (Alexis) Wright, Lindsay (Nick) McCullough, and Josh Nichols; great grandchildren: Isabella, Charlie, Taylor, Owen, Maxwell, Langan, James, and one on the way; along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Isabel, and his infant daughter, Kathy Lea.

Funeral services for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. A Luncheon will be held following the service for a time of continued fellowship. Family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the funeral home. A private burial will be held at the Bethel Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Russell Fire Department.

Jeri Lynne (Clay) Baker-Tresnak Obituary July 10, 1950- March 31, 2026

 

Jeri Lynne Clay Baker Tresnak was born on July 10, 1950, in Marshalltown, Iowa, to Charles and Alma Clay. She was later joined by brother Gregory and sister Tamara.

She attended school in Radclidde, Melbourne, Russell and graduated from Chariton High School in 1968.

Jeri married Steve Baker the same year. To this union three daughters were born Kari Ann, the twins Lisa Lee and Lori Lynne.

She later remarried Jim Tresnak to this union one daughter was born Tara Jo.

Throughout her life, Jeri worked at Lucas County Health Center as an EMT, specializing in medical records and transcription. Her skill and dedication earned her awards and special recognitions. She also owned and operated JJ’s pizza on the Chariton square where Tara would help after school.

Jeri was heavily influenced by Elvis, loved music and taught herself to play piano. She really enjoyed playing the piano at Church.

She loved rocking and cuddling all her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. She became a babysitter after retirement and enjoyed watching her great-grand-daughter Charlotte Alma.

Jeri enjoyed Pepsi and M&Ms and going out for Chinese food. She also loved going to the casino every chance she had to go with someone. She enjoyed going to all the grandkids, nieces and nephews concerts and sporting events.

Jeri was an amazing woman who was full of love and always tried to make sure everyone around her was happy. Her kindness and love has left a permanent impression on everyone who has ever known her. She will forever be loved and deeply missed.

Jeri was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Alma Clay, her brother Greg and her great-grandson Christian.

She is survived by her daughters Kari Keller (Charles), Lisa Dyer (Larry), Lori Baker and Tara Smith (Ryan), sister Tammy Johnson (Don), grandkids Daniel, Jami, Alex, Douglas, Christopher, Jeffrey, Makala, Luke, April, Paisley and Pryce. She is also survived by 21 great-grandchildren.

Services are under the direction of Fielding Funeral Home in Chariton.

Carolyn Louise Hile Christensen Obituary

 Carolyn Louise Hile Christensen age 88 of Bloomington IL, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Martin Health Center, Bloomington IL.

Carolyn was born January 22, 1935 in York, Nebraska the daughter of Ted and Dorothy Marquardt Hile. She was raised in Russell, Iowa; graduated from Iowa State University and completed the requirements to be a Registered Dietitian. Carolyn met her husband at a St. Patrick's Day party in Denver; then life took them in separate directions. They reconnected by way of a letter from Carolyn's mother telling him about Carolyn's injury and hospitalization in Norway due to a hotel fire. She married Morris Christensen on October 16, 1960 in Russell, Iowa. They spent most of their married life in Bloomington-Normal, IL. Carolyn mothered two children, worked as a Registered Dietitian and was active in church, community and professional organizations. During her 15 years as the School Lunch Director for McLean County Unit 5 Schools she was named Career Woman of the Year by the Bloomington Business & Professional Women' s Club. Her generous, giving spirit and warm smile were evident to all she met. In addition to her husband Morris, also surviving are two siblings, Nancy (Verlis) Miller, Cedar Rapids, IA and Roger Hile, Ft. Smith, MT. Two children, Jill Christensen, Centennial, CO, Brian (Beckie) Christensen, East Peoria, IL, four grandchildren, Kylie (Eddie) Kahle, Rochester, IL, Paige (Matt) Marino, La Mesa, CA, Andrew (Morgan) Christensen, Lincoln, NE, Rachel Ledesma, Crested Butte, CO, three great grandchildren, Quentin and Lucy Kahle and Carter Christensen and several nieces and nephews. Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents. A visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:00 am on Saturday, September 30, 2023 with a funeral service to follow at First United Methodist Church 211 N. School St. Normal IL. A graveside service will be held at Funks Grove Cemetery. The family suggests memorials be made to First United Methodist Church, Normal, IL Cremation arrangements are being handled by Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington, IL.

Zelda M Boldt Obituary August 27, 1944-February 18,2026

 Zelda Marie Stout Boldt, 81, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after a long battle of Alzheimer’s with family by her side. She was born on August 27, 1944, in Chariton, Iowa to Raymond and Arlene Anderson Stout.  Zelda was the middle child of five. She attended Chariton Community Schools with the class of 1962. While in high School Zelda worked at Engelbretzens restaurant. The restaurant moved to Iowa City and she followed. She then came back home when she welcomed a son Kevin Stout in 1964.  Zelda’s friend Sharon O’Leary introduced her to her future husband when they needed a ride, and he was driving around the square. They tried to pay him for the ride, and he said he was no taxi service. Sharon also told her Dennis was rich since he was inheriting the family farm; however, Zelda was unaware of his two sisters and that most farmers are not rich. Zelda married Dennis Boldt on January 8,1971. Sixteen years later they welcomed a daughter Kimberly Sue Boldt. They farmed together raising hogs in the 80s and then switching to cattle. She was always helping him farm when she wasn’t at her job in town. They always raised corn, soybeans and put up hay. During planting season, she was out there counting the rows to make sure the planter was working. Zelda worked at Gross Galesburg making snowmobile suits. Then she went to work at Chamberlin’s factory in Albia making windows and doors. In the 90s she went to work at Pamida, which later turned into Shopko. When Shopko closed, she finally retired at 75 years old. Zelda attended the Faith United Methodist church in Russell. Zelda was known for her sweet desserts and loved spending time with friends and family. She enjoyed crocheting, shopping, and watching The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune. Her true loves were Pepsi and chocolate. Please honor Zelda by wearing purple as it was her favorite color and for Alzheimer’s. Zelda will be greatly missed by her daughter Kim, her siblings Judy Schreck, Sharol Schoondyke, Wayne (Patty) Stout and Dianna Stout. Sister-in-laws Ann (Ken) Dilley and Mary (Lane) Davis. Her nieces and nephews, Mike (Carolyn) Schreck, Jeff (Chris) Schreck, Teresa (Rick) Pate, Brian Schreck, Shelley (Tim) Payne, Tina (Pat) Riley, Deann Remington (Rex), Scott Remington, Chris Davis, Shana (Chris) Kays and Elizabeth (Mike) Schmidt, Close friends Jean McWherter, Sue DeZwarte, Joyce Halferty and her church family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her son Kevin, her brother- in- laws, John Schoondyke and Ed Schreck.

Zelda Marie Stout Boldt, 81, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after a long battle of Alzheimer’s with family by her side. She was born on August 27, 1944, in Chariton, Iowa to Raymond and Arlene Anderson Stout.  Zelda was the middle child of five. She attended Chariton Community Schools with the class of 1962. While in high School Zelda worked at Engelbretzens restaurant. The restaurant moved to Iowa City and she followed. She then came back home when she welcomed a son Kevin Stout in 1964.  Zelda’s friend Sharon O’Leary introduced her to her future husband when they needed a ride, and he was driving around the square. They tried to pay him for the ride, and he said he was no taxi service. Sharon also told her Dennis was rich since he was inheriting the family farm; however, Zelda was unaware of his two sisters and that most farmers are not rich. Zelda married Dennis Boldt on January 8,1971. Sixteen years later they welcomed a daughter Kimberly Sue Boldt. They farmed together raising hogs in the 80s and then switching to cattle. She was always helping him farm when she wasn’t at her job in town. They always raised corn, soybeans and put up hay. During planting season, she was out there counting the rows to make sure the planter was working. Zelda worked at Gross Galesburg making snowmobile suits. Then she went to work at Chamberlin’s factory in Albia making windows and doors. In the 90s she went to work at Pamida, which later turned into Shopko. When Shopko closed, she finally retired at 75 years old. Zelda attended the Faith United Methodist church in Russell. Zelda was known for her sweet desserts and loved spending time with friends and family. She enjoyed crocheting, shopping, and watching The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune. Her true loves were Pepsi and chocolate. Please honor Zelda by wearing purple as it was her favorite color and for Alzheimer’s. Zelda will be greatly missed by her daughter Kim, her siblings Judy Schreck, Sharol Schoondyke, Wayne (Patty) Stout and Dianna Stout. Sister-in-laws Ann (Ken) Dilley and Mary (Lane) Davis. Her nieces and nephews, Mike (Carolyn) Schreck, Jeff (Chris) Schreck, Teresa (Rick) Pate, Brian Schreck, Shelley (Tim) Payne, Tina (Pat) Riley, Deann Remington (Rex), Scott Remington, Chris Davis, Shana (Chris) Kays and Elizabeth (Mike) Schmidt, Close friends Jean McWherter, Sue DeZwarte, Joyce Halferty and her church family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her son Kevin, her brother- in- laws, John Schoondyke and Ed Schreck.

Zelda Marie Stout Boldt, 81, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after a long battle of Alzheimer’s with family by her side. She was born on August 27, 1944, in Chariton, Iowa to Raymond and Arlene Anderson Stout.  Zelda was the middle child of five. She attended Chariton Community Schools with the class of 1962. While in high School Zelda worked at Engelbretzens restaurant. The restaurant moved to Iowa City and she followed. She then came back home when she welcomed a son Kevin Stout in 1964.  Zelda’s friend Sharon O’Leary introduced her to her future husband when they needed a ride, and he was driving around the square. They tried to pay him for the ride, and he said he was no taxi service. Sharon also told her Dennis was rich since he was inheriting the family farm; however, Zelda was unaware of his two sisters and that most farmers are not rich. Zelda married Dennis Boldt on January 8,1971. Sixteen years later they welcomed a daughter Kimberly Sue Boldt. They farmed together raising hogs in the 80s and then switching to cattle. She was always helping him farm when she wasn’t at her job in town. They always raised corn, soybeans and put up hay. During planting season, she was out there counting the rows to make sure the planter was working. Zelda worked at Gross Galesburg making snowmobile suits. Then she went to work at Chamberlin’s factory in Albia making windows and doors. In the 90s she went to work at Pamida, which later turned into Shopko. When Shopko closed, she finally retired at 75 years old. Zelda attended the Faith United Methodist church in Russell. Zelda was known for her sweet desserts and loved spending time with friends and family. She enjoyed crocheting, shopping, and watching The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune. Her true loves were Pepsi and chocolate. Please honor Zelda by wearing purple as it was her favorite color and for Alzheimer’s. Zelda will be greatly missed by her daughter Kim, her siblings Judy Schreck, Sharol Schoondyke, Wayne (Patty) Stout and Dianna Stout. Sister-in-laws Ann (Ken) Dilley and Mary (Lane) Davis. Her nieces and nephews, Mike (Carolyn) Schreck, Jeff (Chris) Schreck, Teresa (Rick) Pate, Brian Schreck, Shelley (Tim) Payne, Tina (Pat) Riley, Deann Remington (Rex), Scott Remington, Chris Davis, Shana (Chris) Kays and Elizabeth (Mike) Schmidt, Close friends Jean McWherter, Sue DeZwarte, Joyce Halferty and her church family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her son Kevin, her brother- in- laws, John Schoondyke and Ed Schreck.

Zelda Marie Stout Boldt, 81, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, after a long battle of Alzheimer’s with family by her side. She was born on August 27, 1944, in Chariton, Iowa to Raymond and Arlene Anderson Stout.  Zelda was the middle child of five. She attended Chariton Community Schools with the class of 1962. While in high School Zelda worked at Engelbretzens restaurant. The restaurant moved to Iowa City and she followed. She then came back home when she welcomed a son Kevin Stout in 1964.  Zelda’s friend Sharon O’Leary introduced her to her future husband when they needed a ride, and he was driving around the square. They tried to pay him for the ride, and he said he was no taxi service. Sharon also told her Dennis was rich since he was inheriting the family farm; however, Zelda was unaware of his two sisters and that most farmers are not rich. Zelda married Dennis Boldt on January 8,1971. Sixteen years later they welcomed a daughter Kimberly Sue Boldt. They farmed together raising hogs in the 80s and then switching to cattle. She was always helping him farm when she wasn’t at her job in town. They always raised corn, soybeans and put up hay. During planting season, she was out there counting the rows to make sure the planter was working. Zelda worked at Gross Galesburg making snowmobile suits. Then she went to work at Chamberlin’s factory in Albia making windows and doors. In the 90s she went to work at Pamida, which later turned into Shopko. When Shopko closed, she finally retired at 75 years old. Zelda attended the Faith United Methodist church in Russell. Zelda was known for her sweet desserts and loved spending time with friends and family. She enjoyed crocheting, shopping, and watching The Young and the Restless and Wheel of Fortune. Her true loves were Pepsi and chocolate. Please honor Zelda by wearing purple as it was her favorite color and for Alzheimer’s. Zelda will be greatly missed by her daughter Kim, her siblings Judy Schreck, Sharol Schoondyke, Wayne (Patty) Stout and Dianna Stout. Sister-in-laws Ann (Ken) Dilley and Mary (Lane) Davis. Her nieces and nephews, Mike (Carolyn) Schreck, Jeff (Chris) Schreck, Teresa (Rick) Pate, Brian Schreck, Shelley (Tim) Payne, Tina (Pat) Riley, Deann Remington (Rex), Scott Remington, Chris Davis, Shana (Chris) Kays and Elizabeth (Mike) Schmidt, Close friends Jean McWherter, Sue DeZwarte, Joyce Halferty and her church family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her son Kevin, her brother- in- laws, John Schoondyke and Ed Schreck.

Larry Krutsinger Obituary September 30, 1953 - January 19, 2026

 A celebration of life for Larry Krutsinger, 72, of Chariton, will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. A graveside service will be held at a later date at the Chariton Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Wild Horse Foundation in honor of Larry’s love for horses. Cards may be sent to 46510 Wildhorse Blvd. Pendleton, Oregon 97801.

Larry William Krutsinger was born on September 30, 1953, in Osceola, Iowa, to William and Ruth (Parmer) Krutsinger. He graduated from Mormon Trail Highschool and later met the love of his life, LuAnn (Johnson) Krutsinger. The two were married on December 31, 1973, and were blessed with three wonderful children.

Larry dedicated thirty-five years of his life to working at the Farmers Co-Op, a place where he truly enjoyed what he did. Having been there for so many years, there was nothing he couldn’t do all the way from spraying chemicals for farmers to working at the feed mill. In addition to his time at the Co-Op, Larry also worked for the county in road maintenance, hauling rock, removing snow, and much more. He was truly a do-it-all man, known for his strong work ethic and willingness to take on any task.

When he wasn’t working, Larry could often be found gardening and tending to his yard, something he took great pride in and thoroughly enjoyed. He also had a deep love for horses, if he had the chance he would’ve owned a whole herd.

Above all else, Larry cherished his family. His eight grandchildren meant the world to him, and he would do absolutely anything for them, just as he would for his children. His dogs also held a very special place in his heart.

Larry will be deeply missed by his wife of 52 years, LuAnn; their children: Travis (Amber) Krutsinger, Bradley William (Allison) Krutsinger, Laura (Jason) Tuttle; 8 grandchildren: Sam, Ava, Kate, Mya, Emma, Lilly, Jaxson and Elijah; sisters, Barb (Kenny) Kittle and Paula (Tim) Clark and many other extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Krutsinger; mother: Ruth (Parmer) Krutsinger; and infant brother: Richard Krutsinger.

Delores Carroll Obituary August 12, 1941-January 5, 2026

 Funeral services for Dolores Carroll, 84, of Russell, will be held Friday, January 9, 2025, at 11a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Family will receive friends Thursday, January 8th from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home. Interment will be at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Memorials will be designated at a later date to some of Dolores’ many passions.

    In 1941 Ed and Mary Ellen O'Donnell welcomed their wild and wonderful redheaded Irish girl child to the world. Dolores graduated from Russell high school and Indian Hills Community College. She married Jim Carroll and together they raised their tribe of 7 on a farm east of Russell.

    She taught them about her love of music, reading and nature. She braked for butterflies. She woke them up in the middle of the night to watch meteor showers and the northern lights. The meals that she lovingly cooked, were generally more than slightly overdone. She was a proud democrat who never voted a straight ticket and once registered as a republican for just under 24 hours to be able to support her candidate in a primary election.

     She welcomed all of her children's friends to share adventures with the family. Some of her favorite people were her grandchildren. Every summer they went to the Iowa State Fair with Grandma Dee. They camped every day for 10 days and saw all of the sights and attractions. They now continue this tradition with their own children. Dolores worked for many years for the Lucas County Public Health. She was a Girl Scout leader, Boy Scout Leader, CCD and confirmation teacher at her church and volunteered many hours for many years at the Russell Community School when her children were attending there, and in 1982 she was even named Lucas County Mother of the Year.

      Dolores will be deeply missed by her husband of 66 years, Jim; seven children: Janet (Denny) Behrhorst, Jim (Tracy) Carroll, Jo Carroll (Richard Dittmer), Jeri (Keith) Bowen, Joyce Carroll, Pat (Jenny) Carroll and Pete (Donna) Carroll; 21 grandchildren: Piper Orman, Haylee (Niles) Mercer, Brandon (Mandy) Carroll, Matthew Carroll, Jacob (Karen) Carroll, Luke Carroll, Jordan Carroll, Devon (Ashley) Carroll, Cody (Pahri) Carroll, TJ Spurgin, Lezlee (Rob) Copeland, April (Shane) Hoffman, Austin Bowen, Lexi (Clayle) Franklin, Ashleigh (Troy) Lande, James (Ailey) Carroll, Carlee (Jason) Luedtke, JJ Carroll, Johnny Carroll, Briaunna Carroll, Addison Carroll; 23 great grandchildren: Nolan, Noria, Nova, Rowdy, Trentin, Finn, Aislin, Sully, Layhla, Avery, Clay, Tyson, Aria, Sutton, Elvia, Knyle, McKinley, Waylon, Elodie, Briar, Luke, Sylar, Keaton and unborn baby Luedtke; and her sister Marilyn (Gary Martin) Cook; Sister-in-law Patti Blubaugh, and should-a-been sister Freda Owens. Many, many, many, many, cousins, nieces and nephews, and people who called her family. Dolores was proceeded in death by: Her parents, in-laws, sister Martha Conway, brother Jim O’Donnell, brother-in-law Mike Carroll, and sister-in-law Elinor Carroll.

To send flowers to the family of Dolores, please visit our floral store.

Richard Atwell Obituary September 1, 1942 - December 4, 2025

 

Services for Richard Atwell, 83, of Chariton, will be held Friday, December 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Brushy Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Brushy Community Church 12790 430th St, Plano, IA 52581.

Richard Dale Atwell was born on September 1, 1942, to Merrill and Clara (King) Atwell at their family home in Plano, Iowa. From the beginning, Richard carried with him a gentle spirit, a strong work ethic, and a deep love for the people in his life.

Growing up on the farm shaped who he became—kind, patient, steady, and always willing to lend a hand. He attended Greenville country school and graduated from Russell High School in 1961, where he enjoyed playing basketball and running track. Richard dearly loved his siblings, and some of his happiest childhood memories were the times they spent together working, playing, and supporting one another. He also cherished the many Sunday nights spent visiting his parents, filling those evenings with laughter, stories, and the comfort of being surrounded by family.

He was proud to have competed at the Boys State Basketball Tournament, but even more proud of the friendships he formed along the way.

Richard served with the Army National Guard as a crane operator and later worked for the Corps building bridges—work that suited his natural ability to build, fix, and strengthen anything he put his hands on. On October 21, 1964, Richard married Patricia Ansley. Together they created a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support as they raised their children: Kelly, Darren, and Ryan.

From 1964 to 1972, Richard owned his own construction company in the Quad Cities. He took great pride in being his own boss and poured his heart into every project, building and restoring homes with the same care and dedication he showed his family and friends. He was a member of the Lions Club and served on the Farmer’s Coop board, always believing in giving back to the community he loved. Some of his happiest days were spent boating on Rathbun Lake, surrounded by family and friends. He was an active member and a Deacon at the First Baptist church in Chariton Iowa, where he made life long friends.

In 1972, Richard and his family returned to Russell, where he embraced a life of farming. He loved working with his hands and found joy in the simple, meaningful moments the land offered. Richard was the kind of man who would stop whatever he was doing to help someone else—quietly, humbly, and without expecting anything in return. His kindness was steady and constant, felt by everyone who knew him.

In his later years, nothing brought him more happiness than time spent with his children and grandchildren. He cherished watching them grow and especially enjoyed the memories they made together at tractor pulls. He also loved having them come to visit, and he never let a single one leave without a handful of snacks to take home. His pride in his family was endless.

On December 4, 2025, Richard passed peacefully at Care Initiatives in Chariton, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrill and Clara Atwell, and his great-grandson, Ellis Bush.

He leaves behind a family who adored him: his children Kelly (Darold) Bush, Darren (Heidi) Atwell, and Ryan (Amanda) Atwell; 10 grandchildren—Conrad (Hannah) Bush, Camron Bush, Amy Stofenberg, Madison (Mark) Langemach, Brady (Abby) Atwell, Tyson Atwell, Elizabeth (Gage) Beers, Sara Atwell (Cody), Briley Atwell, and Baylor Atwell; three great-grandchildren—Jovie, Hazel, and Henry; his siblings Don (Karol) Atwell, Rose (Jerry) Jeffries, Joyce Trenary Robinson, and Dave Atwell; and many extended family and friends who will carry his love with them forever.

Richard lived his life with a generous heart, a steady hand, and a quiet but powerful love for his family, friends, church, and community. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched. He will be greatly missed.