Richard “Rick” Neufeld, 76, passed away on Monday, September 20, 2021. Rick was born March 29, 1945 in Fresno, CA, the only son of Dr. Edward “Hap” and Jean Neufeld. The family, which included an older sister, Barbara, returned to Des Moines in 1946 where two more sisters completed “the Neufelds”.
Rick remained an Iowa resident the rest of his life. He graduated from Roosevelt in the class of ’63. While attending the University of Iowa, he met Sue Seeberger. They married in 1969 and settled in Iowa City. On their 10th Anniversary they welcomed their daughter Amanda. Rick and Sue later divorced but always remained dear friends. Rick returned to Des Moines and married Lori Ishizaki in 1992 and they began 29 years together filled with love and adventure. They traveled and skied; he zip lined and climbed mountains. Amanda likened him to Indiana Jones-truly a “larger than life” dad. He was quick witted, exceptionally intelligent, and had an irreverent sense of humor. Rick had an inherent ability to figure things out and solve problems. He was politically informed and opinionated and was willing to discuss politics whether you wanted him to or not. Sometimes you just had to tell him to stop. Rick was a devoted Hawkeye fan, especially Iowa Basketball. In fact, he loved all basketball; often watching games on the west coast in to the night on the couch with is cats by his side.
He had several occupations during his working years. Pre-pandemic, he owned Complete Travel in Ankeny. Becoming a travel agent was perfect for him. He discovered he really like to visit new places. He and Lori, along with close friends and sometimes family, visited several European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, Vietnam, and Russia.
Rick is survived by his wife, Lori; two sisters, Nancy (Ed) and Linda (Greg); daughter, Amanda (Colton); three cats, Murphy, Sabre and Kona. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jean; father, Edward “Hap”; and sister, Barbara.
A joyful and grateful celebration to remember Rick’s life will be held when it is safe to gather again.
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