Richard 'Dick' Lofton Obituary Richard Lee Lofton, aged 92, passed away on August 15, after a brief illness. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and humanitarian, he lived a life of faithful service and love. Born on September 18, 1931, in Keokuk, Iowa, Richard was the youngest son of Edwin S. and Irene (Danford) Lofton. After having graduated with the Keokuk Senior High School class of 1949, he attended the Iowa Teachers College (UNI) for two years, where he played basketball. Richard then transferred to the University of Iowa, graduating in 1953. Having met in high school, Richard and Dolores married on June 21,1953, after which Richard enlisted in the Army, achieving the rank of Corporal, and serving as a company clerk in France. Richard continued his lifetime of service through humanitarian work with his community, church and the greater world, touching countless lives. In 1957, Richard and Dolores returned to Keokuk, where Richard joined the family insurance agency, Ed S. Lofton and Sons, retiring in 1986 and spending retirement years nurturing family, serving church and community, and traveling the world. Richards vast involvement in his community included serving as President of the Keokuk Area Hospital Board, being honored as the first recipient of the Spirit of Keokuk Award for overall community involvement, and serving as a key member and chair of the Habitat for Humanity fundraising committee. Affiliations with the Masons, Jaycees, and Rotary further demonstrated Richards commitment to community service. As a member of First Christian Church in Keokuk, where he served as an elder, teacher, and Chairman of the Board, Richards support and guidance was of great benefit to both the local and greater church. He held leadership roles as Vice Chair and Chair of the Board of the Division of Overseas Ministries and represented the Division on a mission trip to Vietnam. Being a man of many talents, Richard shared his passion for music, singing in the church choir, community choir, and a mens quartet. In 2017, Richard and Dolores were awarded the Harry T. Ice Award, the highest honor given by the Christian Church Foundation, in recognition of outstanding service and philanthropy. This is one of many awards and accolades he received throughout his life because of his unwavering commitment to his community and church. Beyond these numerous accomplishments, Richard was first and foremost a dedicated family man. He was a rock to many, a master of practical jokes, and a storyteller who captivated his children, grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren through the telling of his infamous ghost stories, as they always anticipated, yet never expected, the "BOO!" at the end. To his family, Richards greatest roles were those of dad and grandad. Together, Richard and Dolores planned multiple family trips, which have left a lifetime of cherished memories. Preceded in death by his wife, parents and brother, Richard is survived by his son, Douglas (Barbara) of Indianapolis, his daughter Deanna (Mark) of Cedar Rapids, grandchildren, David (Lauren) Lofton, Leah (Aaron) McNeil, Benjamin Long, Anna Long and six great-grandchildren. A celebration of Richard's life will be held on August 23 at the First Christian Church in Keokuk. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service, where friends and family can gather to remember and honor a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Christian Church of Keokuk, Iowa, as well as the Keokuk Area Community Foundation (PO Box 367, Keokuk, Iowa 52632). The love story of our beloved Richard and Dolores was truly one for the ages. Richards heartache over Dolores' passing was profound. Only sixty-three days after laying her to rest, he finished the "chase" he began back in high school. Richard and Dolores are now together eternally, leaving a legacy of love as grand as any fairytale. In honor of Richard, let us remember his contributions, his laughter, and the love he shared with those around him. May his spirit live on in our hearts and may he forever sing in the heavenly choir alongside his forever love. Services Visitation Friday August 23, 2024 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM First Christian Church of Keokuk 3476 Main St Keokuk, IA 52632 Funeral Service Friday August 23, 2024 11:00 AM First Christian Church of Keokuk 3476 Main St Keokuk, IA 52632