Francis Richards' Obituary
Francis “Sonny” E. Richards II, 66, of Goose Lake, died Saturday, September 26, 2009 at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Bettendorf with family by his side. The Clinton Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. At Sonny's request, there will be no services. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 10, 2009 at the Goose Lake Community Center from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. The family hopes that all who knew him will come and share their stories and love for him. Francis “Sonny” Richards II was born on July 28, 1943 in Welch, West Virginia, the son of Francis E. and Juanita (Spears) Richards. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1961 where he was involved in track. After graduating, he attended UNI for two years before deciding to enlist in the United Sates Air Force. He served our country until 1967 as a security policeman stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. While in service he earned several awards including the Small Arms Expert Marksman Ribbon. He enjoyed his time spent there, especially going moose hunting. He then worked various jobs in California before joining Toys ‘R’ Us. He worked for them for 22 years as a warehouse manager. He was responsible for opening markets in San Jose, California, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Charlotte, North Carolina. He move to Goose Lake in 2007 to be closer to his family and to get reaquainted with them. Sonny enjoyed traveling and meeting new people. He was happiest when he was surrounded by friends and animals. Sonny loved sports especially football, track, basketball, and tennis. He intently followed all the sporting events at the Northeast School District. When he wasn't watching sports, he was watching the Food Channel to find new recipes. He is survived by his stepmother Shirley Richards of Clinton, Iowa; two brothers: David (Kathy) Richards of Goose Lake, Iowa and Robert (Lara) Richards of Donahue, Iowa; sister: Carol (Bud) Mielkey of Clinton, Iowa; Stepson: David (Amy) Cook of Sacramento, California; Stepdaughter: Shawna Mansfield of San Jose, California; two step grandchildren: Skyler and Cade; seven nieces; one great nephew; and two great nieces; and special friends: Rod Templeton and Denise Witt of Goose Lake, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents.
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