Richard D. Craft

Richard D. Craft, 85, of Fort Dodge, IA, died Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Paula J. Baber Hospice Home.  Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the Historic Bruce Funeral Home, 923 1st Avenue South with Rev. Gary Snook officiating.  Military honors will be conducted by the VFW Post 1856 and the US Army Honor Guard.  Inurnment will take place at Corpus Christi Cemetery at a later date.  Arrangements are with Historic Bruce Funeral Home of Fort Dodge. 

Richard was born January 10, 1939, in Fort Dodge, the son of John H. and Florence K. (Greenfield) Craft.  He attended Fort Dodge Senior High.   A true patriot at heart, Richard served his country honorably in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy. His dedication to the military exemplified his unwavering commitment to duty and service.  He was married to Mary Emelyne Crews with whom he shared the joy of raising 8 children before parting ways after 25 years. On June 15, 1985, he found happiness once more as he married Norma Reed and together they established their home in Fort Dodge. Richard and Norma were not only partners in marriage but also in business as they owned and operated D & N Mobile Homes until their well-deserved retirement. Their shared love for travel led them to spend winters in Corpus Christi, Texas.  Richard's interests varied from traveling and camping to spending quality time with his beloved pets Zoey and Mittens. He found solace in nature through activities such as target shooting, fishing, gardening, and taking care of his yard. However, his greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and family gatherings where he could enjoy BBQs with loved ones.  He was a member of the VFW.

Richard is survived by 8 children: Janet Vinson of Fort Dodge, Richard Craft of Florida, James Craft and wife Nancy of Fort Dodge, John Craft and wife Kathy of California, David Craft and wife Amanda of Fort Dodge, Danny Craft and wife Trishia of Fort Dodge, Brenda Cruz of Fort Dodge, and Kevin Craft of Fort Dodge; 14 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and aunt: Polly Smith of Fort Dodge.  He is also survived by his nieces and nephews.  

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife: Norma Craft in 2020; ex-wife: Mary Craft; as well as his brothers: David Craft and John "Punky" Craft.

Richard was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and dedicated patriot who will be deeply missed.