Espeland, Richard S. (1932-2011)
ESPELAND, CHRISTIANSON
Posted By: Paul Nagy, volunteer (email)
Date: 5/15/2011 at 22:16:59
Richard S. Espeland
August 14, 1932 - May 9, 2011FOREST CITY - Richard Espeland, age 78, of Forest City, died Monday, May 9, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center in Mason City, Iowa.
Richard S. Espeland was born in Rake, Iowa, on August 14, 1932, the son of Cyrus and Celia (Christianson) Espeland. He received his education in Rake and graduated from Rake High School in 1950. During the Korean Conflict, he served for two years in the U.S. Army.
Richard married Darlyne Johnson on March 17, 1953, in Wells, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Forest City, Iowa, where Richard did construction work and worked for Lloyd Olson at the Olson Furniture Store. Richard's thirty year career with the US Postal Service began in Forest City where he carried mail for many years. He then became Postmaster at the Crystal Lake Post Office, a position he held until his retirement when he began working for himself. And this was his passion ~ he loved being his own boss. He laid carpet in homes throughout the north Iowa area, and he didn't need to advertise because word of mouth kept him very busy. He remained focused on being self-sufficient and did as much for himself as he could, teaching and challenging his children to keep up and work along-side him. A talented woodworker, Richard enjoyed raising cattle and exotic birds as well.
He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and the American Legion.
He is survived by his wife, Darlyne, of Forest City, and three children: Trudy (Rick) Johnson, of Mason City, Iowa, Rick (Michelle) Espeland, of Winterset, Iowa, and Steven (Susan) Espeland, of Madrid, Iowa; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Tim; three brothers; and a sister.
Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, May 12, 2011, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Forest City with Pastor Rod Hopp officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery in Forest City.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, May 11, 2011, at the Petersen Lund Funeral Home, 505 North Clark Street, Forest City, and will continue an hour prior to service at the church.
Copyright © 2011, Petersen Lund Funeral Home
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