Richard P. Halvorson

Dick was born in Arlington, South Dakota and raised on a farm near Sinai, South Dakota. He received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from South Dakota State University.

He served in the Army as a First Lieutenant. Following his active service, he continued to serve in the reserves. He’s shared many of his experiences from living on the farm and his time in the service, with his grandchildren through his weekly “Papa Notes,” which he faithfully mailed to each grandchild every week. One story he shared, told of leaving Seattle and going to Japan on a ship while serving in the Army. His troops were all lined up, getting ready to board the ship. They could see a ship, a luxury cruise liner, with Army nurses boarding. It was a bit of a disappointment when they were directed to a smaller troop carrier on the other side of a warehouse. His weekly Papa Notes are treasured, not only by his grandchildren, but also by his children, who had the pleasure of reading them.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Ida Halvorson, and his little sister, Gloria Faith. He is also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Sonja Halvorson and brother-in-law, Wayne Rasmuss. He is survived by wife, who was blessed by his love for 60 years, Julie, his children Paul , David , Susan Groff and Doug, his grandchildren, Kyle , Jesse Groff, Lyndsi, Jennifer, Boman Groff, Ryan , Lauren, Karl, Erik, Skyler Groff and Isaac Groff. Dick was able to meet his first great-grandchild, Dawson just two weeks ago. He is also survived by his sister, Grace Wangberg , brothers, Bob Halvorson and Jim Halvorson, brother-in-law Bob Christensen and sister-in-law, Paula Rasmuss. He is also survived by 15 nieces and nephews.

Dick was a devoted member of the Gideons, faithfully sharing God’s word. He was also an active member of several other organizations including SCORE where he held various offices including Chairman and traveled with SCORE to Russia and the Ukraine to assist companies. He was also active in the Rotary and the Nebraska Business Development Center Board of Advisors.

Dick’s life will be remembered as a loving example of his faith, love of family, courage, determination and ability to always smile and not complain even when suffering.

His life will be celebrated at a gathering of family and friends at Roeder Mortuary, 2727 N 108th Street, Omaha, Nebraska from 5-7 on Tuesday, May 16, 2017. Memorials and remembrances will be shared. The service will be at 10am at Lutheran Church of the Master, 2617 S 114th St. . Memorials can be directed to the American Cancer Society , the Gideons , or Luther Church of the Master .