Richard Harvey Ellsworth, 74, of Durant, Iowa died Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, at Genesis Health System-East Campus, Davenport. A funeral service was held on Oct. 28 at Bentley Funeral Home in Durant. Burial took place in Davenport Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Durant American Legion or a charity of the donor’s choice in Richard’s memory. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com
Richard was born in Davenport on March 12, 1945, the son of Charles Harvey and Mary Alice (Hannah) Ellsworth. He graduated from Durant High School with the class of 1962. He later attended St. Ambrose University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1982. Richard served his country in the United States Army from 1967-1969.
Richard married Jean Boecker on Nov. 22, 1969 in Mediapolis.
Richard was an engineer with Bendix Corporation in Davenport and later with Red Jacket Pump. Richard retired from Radec Engineering in Denver, Iowa. He was a member of the Durant American Legion Post #430. He was also a past member of the American Legion and the Lions Club in Denver, Iowa. Richard enjoyed the outdoors, especially playing golf and tending to his flower gardens. He also enjoyed playing chess with his close friend Frank Hamilton.
Richard is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jean; two brothers, Robert Ellsworth of Durant and William (Shirley) Ellsworth of Durant; and many nieces and nephews.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Sandy Dick; three half sisters, Lois Ritter, Betty Dirksen, and Lois Riexinger; and one half brother, Jim Ellsworth.
