Richard W. Kiefer

Richard Wayne Kiefer, son of Virgil Peter Kiefer and Mary Leona Harkins Kiefer, was born June 7, 1940 in Jefferson, Iowa and died at his home in Des Moines, Iowa, February 22, 2007 at the age of 66 years, 8 months and 15 days. Richard graduated from Jefferson High School in 1958. He graduated from Iowa Barber College and worked in Ames. He then moved to Des Moines where he worked for Pigeons Furniture Store until it closed and then Montgomery Wards until it closed. Richard then managed the Good Will Store. Richard then retired, later leaving retirement to enter into a very meaningful relationship with the Home Depot. He was the first person to enter into this partnership with AARP and the Home Depot and enjoyed traveling to Washington D.C. and appeared on the Today Show on behalf of this program. Richard loved working in sales, which allowed him to help and visit with people. Richard was a devout member of ALl Saints Catholic Church in Des Moines, and he was a Grand Knigh in the Knights of Columbus. Richard volunteered many hours where ever he could help. In younger years, he had a Clowning Service and performed magic tricks. He also enjoyed playing Santa Claus. Richard devoted his life to his son, Kent and encouraged him in all of his endeavors, one of which was becoming an Eagle Scout. Richard adored his granddaughters. he enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, emailing, camping, and ice fishing. His home is filled with his collection of clowns, Indians, and eagles. Richard had also been very devoted to his mother and was good and attentive to her. he was preceded in death by his parents. Richard is survived by his son, Kent Kiefer(Becky) of Ankeny; 3 granddaughters, Emily, Elizabeth, and Katie, and anticipating the birth of a 4th grandchild; 1 brother, norman Kiefer(Debbie) of Canon City, Colorado; 2 sisters, Mary Jo Burchfield(joseph) of Dana, and Kathy Jennings(Dean) of Council Bluffs; 1 aunt, Helen Harkins of Chicago, Ill.; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.