Obituary for Richard Childs

Richard D. Childs, 68, of Traer died on Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at Allen Hospital in Waterloo from a lengthy illness. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 21 at 10:30 AM at Christ Lutheran Church in Gladbrook. Richard Dennis Childs was born July 15, 1944 to Floyd and Garrnett (Bird) Childs in the family farm house. Richard attended the country school Perry #5 (Stormy point) until the 2nd grade. Richard then attended North Tama school 3rd to 12 grade, and graduated in 1962. Richard was involved in the projector club through high school, spending many hours in the shop class, where he built one of the green barge box wagons. After school and after graduation Richard was very involved in the operation of the family farm. Graduating from school Richard went to work at the local Case Dealership for Lyle Culp. Richard worked for many of the surrounding neighbors. Richard was drafted to Vietnam, was stationed in Panama as a mechanic, for the tanks, jeeps, and trucks. After his two year term, Richard returned to the farm. Spring of 1968 Richard took over the Childs farm and made it his passion of life. In 1969 Richard bought his first combine and began his custom harvesting. Through out the years Richard has spent many hours in the custom work business, from the harvesting, plowing, and mechanics. Richard was married on August 8, 1980 to Lori Ann Meether. They had two sons Jason and Justin. Richard enjoyed involving his two sons in the family farm operation. Richard also visited with friends and neighbors, and was always on the hunt for the best bargain. Richard and his boys love going to salvage yards. Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Garrnett Childs; two sisters, Donna (Knapp) Childs and Gloria (Peters) Childs; and a brother, John Childs. Richard is survived by a brother, Tom Childs; a sister Sandra Childs; and two sons, Jason and Justin Childs.