Richard Jerome “Dick” Japsen, 89, of Burlington, passed away Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.
Born Oct. 28, 1931, in Burlington, he was the son of Hans Conrad and Esther Catherine Wales Japsen. He graduated from Sperry High School in 1949.
He married Rosemary Aid in November 1958; they later divorced. On April 1, 1991, he married Kathryn "Kitsie" Steer in Burlington.
Dick served in the Naval Reserves. He worked for Farm Service, Beckman TV and Appliance, Atlas Truck and Radiator, and for 18 years as a service company manager for Atlas Trucking.
He was a member of SS. John and Paul Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus and was a long time Southeastern Community College Blackhawks basketball booster.
On October 9, 1986, he met Bill W., and they became lifelong friends from that day forward.
Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Lorna Holland of Des Moines, and Molly Miller of North Liberty; three step-sons, James Steer, Joseph Steer, and Todd Steer; one step-daughter, Ann Loehrke; five grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren; and one brother, Brian Japsen of Burlington.
As per Dick's request cremation has been accorded.
Visitation will be 10 until 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 28 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.
The Memorial Mass of the Resurrection for Mr. Japsen will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 28 at Divine Mercy Parish-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Rev. James Flattery as the celebrant. Due to concerns regarding COVID-19, the family requests all attendees wear masks. Inurnment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for Divine Mercy Parish.