CLENDEN, Richard Dean: Died 1967

CLENDENEN, OLIVER, FIDLER

Posted By: Volunteer: Sherri
Date: 6/1/2017 at 11:31:26

RICHARD DEAN CLENDENEN

Son of Irvin and Wilberta Oliver Clendenen, was born August 8, 1945, in Ottumwa, Iowa, and lost his life July 29, 1967, in the deck fire on the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal, stationed off the coast of Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin.

He was 21 years, 11 months and 21 days of age. Dick, as he was known by family and friends spent most of his life on a farm in Davis County, Iowa, until he entered the Navy.

He graduated from Fox Valley High School with the class of 1964 and later the same year, Oct. 28th, entered the United States Navy, where he served his country until his death.

An infant sister preceded him in death.

Besides his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Clendenen of Milton, he leaves to mourn his loss, his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Dale Clendenen Milton, Iowa and Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Oliver, of Imperial, California; an aunt, Mrs. Pauline Fidler of Denver, Colorado, other relatives and many friends.

Two words we would add at his point: "Richard had made many friends and was admired and respected by all who knew him. He had earned the reputation of being a dedicated and skilled member of this squadron and had performed all of his duties in a professional and seaman-like manner."

Second, form a note to the family from a friend.

"we want you to know that we share in your grief and loss. All of us who knew Dick shall never forget his wonderful sense of humor and vitality.

May God comfort you in your loss and know that we whose lives touched Dick's will remember his and miss him."

It is with deep sense of concern and respect that we gather in these moments of worship and meditation.

**Handwritten: Rec-Rep. Tues. 15 Aug. 1967

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Obituary Book J, Page 16, Keosauqua Public Library, Keosauqua, IA