Richard James Heston, a true Renaissance man of art, died Nov. 14, 2022, in Burlington. Born in Mason City on March 31, 1955, Richard was the son of Robert and Marcella Heston.
He was a 1974 graduate of Burlington Community High School. Throughout his lifetime he worked at different establishments in the Burlington area and retired from Laura’s restaurant. Richard was a Harley man and rode and owned motorcycles his entire adult life, but art was his life’s passion. He created in all mediums and was commissioned by many individuals and businesses for their logos. Throughout his lifetime he had many creative accomplishments. He was a featured guest on the PBS show “Living in Iowa”. He was credited with inventing the strawberry Twinkie and he was a walk-on extra in the 2018 movie “Sugar” which was partially filmed at Pzazz. His artwork was published in many books and magazines across the United States. He was a member of the Burlington Art Guild and his work was exhibited at the Art Center of Burlington. He also sold art pieces at local downtown shops.
Richard was preceded in death by his entire family. At age 67 he was the last of his line. He is survived by his companion of 23 years Laura Myers of Burlington and many lifelong friends. Richard will be remembered as a kind and generous person who would give a total stranger his last dollar. He was a champion of all animals and gave shelter and love to many that were abandoned. He was fond of saying that he would leave this world knowing that even when his life was hard, he always had love from his parents, family, friends, and animals.
According to his wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.
A graveside service and inurnment will be held in Aspen Grove Cemetery Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, at
2:30 p.m. Please meet at the Sunnyside entrance.