Richard John Azinger Sr.

Richard John (Dick) Azinger Sr. passed away on Tuesday January 28th 2025 at the age of 87. He was born on August 6th, 1937 in Keokuk, IA to Herman & Loretta Azinger. Dick graduated High School in Montrose, IA and then went on to receive multiple advance degrees from colleges and universities including St. Ambrose and the University of Iowa. Dick was united in marriage to Mary Ann Kearns on August 11th,1962 in Keokuk, IA. The couple resided in multiple locations before finally laying down roots in DeWitt, IA where they lived for over 50 years raising their 5 children. Dick spent his life dedicated to teaching, inspiring countless students throughout his career.

Dick's love for family, reading, scrapbooking and gardening (vegetables & flowers) was evident to all who knew him. He spent many hours tending to his garden, a peaceful hobby that brought him great joy and tranquility. You could always see Dick and Mary Ann at one of the numerous sporting events of their children and grandchildren. Black glass was another passion of theirs and they grew quite a collection. Mary Ann and Dick had countless adventures traveling the globe and after they came back from each Dick meticulously documented each trip in scrapbooks so they could relive the excitement any time wanted. Dick also presented travel logs at the local movie house so others in the community could enjoy the breath-taking views they experienced. Dick also loved doing calligraphy and making cutout artwork for special events. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents - Herman & Lorretta, his siblings - Herman (Bud) and his wife Pat, Tom, William (Bill) & Donna. Dick is survived by his wife Mary Ann, their five children - Kevin (Connie), Kirk (Lisa), Rich (Janet), Todd (Stefanie) & Jennifer (Bob), and his brother Roy (Liz), 11 grandchildren & 5 great grandchildren.

A visitation/memorial service will be held on February 8th at St. Boniface Church in Waukee starting at 9am, where friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Dick’s life. There will be a light luncheon following the mass. Burial will be held at a later date in Montrose, IA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Croix Hospice of West Des Moines.

He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing.