Richard Carlson

Richard Eugene Carlson, 82, of rural Bloomfield, Iowa passed away on November 15, 2024 at his home surrounded by family. He was born on October 21, 1942 on his family farm in Davis County, Iowa to Iver Henry and Evelyn Barker Carlson. He graduated from Davis County High School in 1960 and shortly after enlisted in the Army where he proudly served his country for two years. After his service, he worked at John Morrell in Ottumwa for 13 years and would go on to retire from John Deere Ottumwa Works in 2001 after 30 years on the job. Richard also farmed his entire life; he loved being on his farm. After retiring from Deere, he clocked in over 80,000 miles driving fellow veterans to various appointments at the VA Hospital in Des Moines. He was proud to be in a position where he could help his fellow veterans. Richard married Judy Duffield on December 17, 1966 in Lancaster, Missouri. The couple spent 58 wonderful years together, raised two children, and went on many memorable vacations. His favorite being a fishing trip to Alaska. One would think with working, farming, and driving duties that Richard would not have time for much else, but he had many hobbies and activities including; hunting, fishing, woodworking, gardening, making clocks and cribbage boards, working on street hot rods, going on tractor rides, playing with his dogs, horseback riding, playing his banjo (which he taught himself how to do) and fixing anything around the house and farm – he was a terrific handyman. Richard was a former member of the Soap Creek Rebels Saddle Club. Richard will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Rick (Pam Deutsch) Carlson of Fairfield, Iowa; daughter, Julie (Brian) Burrows of Bloomfield; grandson, Levi J. Carlson of Albia, Iowa; and two siblings, Gary Carlson of Bloomfield, Sharon (Jerry) Padget of Bloomfield. He was preceded in death by his parents; two granddaughters, Kayla and Kassie Hale; and son-in-law, Rick Hale. Richard’s wish was to be cremated. Open visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at the Wagler Funeral Home in Bloomfield. Military rites will be performed by Reed-Whisler Post #78 of the American Legion at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening at the funeral home. Following military rites, the family will be present to greet friends until 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the Disabled Veterans of America and Tunnels to Towers and may be left at the funeral home during visitation or mailed to: Richard Carlson Memorial, 304 W. Jefferson St., Bloomfield, Iowa 52537.

Richard Carlson

October 21, 1942 - November 15, 2024