Richard Athen was born March 28, 1938, to Dale and Amelia Athen. He graduated from Hamburg High School in 1956. He attended Peru College, then graduated from Nebraska Technical College in Milford, Nebraska majoring in welding.

Richard was very active in 4-H, winning many honors with his Angus calves, pigs and sheep. He also served on the Iowa Extension Council. After serving time in the Army National Guard, he received his honorable discharge on August 17, 1967. He continued farming after his father’s death.

On August 27, 1971, he married Janet Grable. They shared many wonderful years of married life together.

Richard was a very quiet, gentle man who loved his family dearly. He will be remembered as being able to fix almost anything – and for his kindness as he helped people. When he wasn’t farming, he built beautiful furniture.

Richard had been a member of the Rock Port Church of Christ. He attended the Rock Port Christian Church. Richard passed away Friday, April 26, 2024, in Lincoln Nebraska, at the age of 86.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving are his wife, Janet; daughter, Lori (Aaron) Nordyke; son, Dan (Stephanie) Athen; grandchildren, Caleb and Bailey Nordyke, Ryan and Brandon Athen. Richard was blessed with more grandchildren when Stephanie and Dan married. Other survivors are a brother, Jim (Phyllis) Athen; sisters, Marcene Lillethorup, and Jeanette Peterson; nieces and nephews.

A private family celebration of life and inurnment will be held at a later date.

There is no visitation.

Memorials: Rock Port Volunteer Fire Department.

Arrangements: Minter Funeral Chapel, Rock Port.

www.minterfuneralchapels.com