06/26/2006
Richard Kendall Garrett was born on Aug. 22, 1944, in Centerville, the son of Donald R. Garrett and Delia (Scherger) Garrett.
He was raised in the Centerville and Ottumwa areas before his family moved to Knoxville,
where he graduated from high school. Following high school, Richard served in the
United States Air Force from 1963 – 67. He also served in the 132nd Fighter Wing
of the Air National Guard for 25 years.
On Aug. 8, 1969, he married Nancy Owens at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Knoxville.
The couple lived three years in Nebraska before returning to Knoxville. Richard
worked for the phone company initially as a lineman, then as a telephone engineer.
He retired from GTE in 1998. Since then, he worked for Finley Engineers in Slayton,
Minn., as an independent telephone engineer contractor.
Richard had varied interests; he enjoyed history and collecting military artifacts.
He liked his work and when he was home, taking a leisurely drive with his dog.
His greatest joy was his family; he enjoyed watching the kids grow up and spending time
with his grandchildren. He was a member of the American Legion, St. Anthony’s Catholic
Church and the Telephone Pioneers.
Richard died Monday, June 26, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines,
at the age of 61.
He was preceded in death by his father. Those left to honor his memory include his
wife, Nancy; children, Patrick (Louisa) of Ottumwa, Michael of Jacksonville, Florida, and Leta Thomas (David) of Panama City, Florida; 7 grandchildren; his mother, Delia,
brother, William (Karen) and his sister, Cara Watts all of West Des Moines. A Rosary
Service was held Thursday, June 29, in Knoxville with Rev. Mark P. Spring serving as celebrant.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held in Knoxville on June 30. Interment was in Graceland
Cemetery. Military Honors accorded by the American Legion BatyTucker Post No. 168,
the V.F.W. John Myers Post No. 3519, and the United States Air Force. For those desiring,
memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.