On the morning of Sunday, January 31, 2016, Richard passed away peacefully of natural causes. Richard was being visited and comforted by family members at his home in Ames, IA at the time of his passing. He was 91 years old.
Richard was born in the town of Ionia, MI at his mother's house on January 17th 1925. He was the only child of Forrest and Alice Vaughn. He grew up on his grandparents' farm and attended grade school in a one-room schoolhouse. He then graduated Ionia high school.
Richard was a veteran of World War II and served as a second class signalman in the Navy and second reserve in the Coast Guard for three years. He was in the Navy reserve for two years. Richard received his Bachelor's degree at Michigan State College in December of 1948. He then went on to receive his Masters of Industrial Engineering degree at Toledo University.
Richard and Frances Foreman were married in March 18, 1947 and had five daughters. They lived in Gainesville, FL where he was a professor of industrial engineering at the University of Florida for 5 years. They moved to Ames, IA in 1962 where he was a professor of industrial engineering at Iowa State University for 25 years. During that time he wrote three textbooks to facilitate his curriculums.
Richard always enjoyed staying active and fit by running and playing racquet ball. His love and passion for the game of golf allowed him to compete in many golf events including several Masters tournaments. His love for the outdoors was perpetuated by canoeing and camping with family in the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota. He was also an avid hiker.
Richard was preceded in death by Forrest and Alice Vaughn.
Richard is survived by his wife, Frances Vaughn and his five daughters Bonnie Ward, Barbara Hyde, Carolyn Takel, Vicki Simons and Beth Torgeson.
At Richard's request, there will not be a funeral or memorial service. He didn't want a big fuss made over him. Instead he will be cremated and placed on the fireplace mantel at his home until his wife Frances passes. The urns will then be transported to Harrison, Michigan and a wake will be arranged at that time.
Happiness!
Online condolences may be directed to: www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com