Age 76 of Plainwell, MI passed away on June 19,2023 in Fall Creek, WI at his daughter’s home.
He was born in Eau Claire, WI on October 23, 1946, to Leslie “Skip” and Betty (Carlson) Halvorsen. Richard grew up in Eau Claire, WI before the family relocated to Waukegan, IL. He attended Waukegan High School before enlisting in the US Marine Corp. He served as a Lance Corporal in the Vietnam War from 1963-1969. He was honorably discharged and received the following declarations after he was wounded in action- Air Medal, Navy Commendation, Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, including the Purple Heart.
After the war Richard was an active member of VFW Post #1293 in Waukegan, IL. He was lucky that his career path followed so many of his passions in life but not limited to, Illinois State Police, heavy equipment operator, campground owner, and project manager of an asphalt company. His last passion took him around the United States as a semi-truck driver, visiting many places he loved with his beloved dobermans Cheyenne & Coco. Richard was a hardworking man who enjoyed spending time with his family, and friends. He also enjoyed camping, fishing, and home improvement projects.
Richard is survived by his spouse Karen (Stowers- Depauw, IN) Halvorsen; son Michael Richard Halvorsen (Amy); daughters Jennifer (Halvorsen) Warner (Tim); Kristen (Halvorsen) Wathke; Nicole Kastler; stepchildren Cristina Prostler; Jessie Weyrick (SFC Marc Weyrick); Cassi Bauer; grandchildren Brandon, Brooklyn, Dakota, Nicole, Ryan, Stephen, Elijah, Alex, Peyton, Emmalin, Sophia, Darin, Chloe, Zechariah, Abbey, Erick, Elliana, Elias; great-grandchildren Wyatt, Brody, Alexis, Olivia, Makayla; brother Kenneth Halvorsen; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Betty Halvorsen.
Military Service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery Augusta, MI on July 7, 2023 at 9:30am. Celebration of Life will be held at their residence following the service.
The family would like to thank St. Joseph’s Hospice for all of their support and caregiving. Chippewa Valley Cremation Services of Altoona, is serving the family.