Richard Rick Lee Claxton III

Richard “Rick” Lee Claxton III, 19, of Ankeny, IA, passed away Tuesday, January 26, 2016. Memorial services will be 10:00a.m., Saturday, January 30, 2016, at Hope Lutheran Church (520 NW 36th St, Ankeny, IA 50023).

Rick was an energetic, social, fun loving young man with a plethora of interests; ranging from boating, snowboarding, x-box and computer games. His love and great affection for all his friends and family were exemplary; in fact, most of these friends ended up at his parent’s home and consequently became “adopted siblings” notably: James, Vince, Lane, and Nathan.

Rick had a love of history, in particular, World War I and II. Also any things involved with the Marine Corp. His interest in Military service he communicated advocacy to his compatriots and he inspired several to enlist who now serve currently.

Rick enjoyed his pets and animals in general and was an avid reader, devouring a library of literature of many subjects. He loved Star Wars but hated mustard, and once remarked that you would know he was a grown up the day he voluntarily ate mustard.

Rick is survived by his parents: Richard and Tami of Ankeny; brother, Nicholas of Chicago, IL; sister, Caroline of Ankeny; grandmother, Norma Acton and great-grandfather Byrl Claxton. He is further survived by countless uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. Rick is preceded in death by his grandparents, Lee and Linda Grizzle; Papa Claxton and cousin, Robert E Lee Grizzle.

Rick’s loss will be keenly felt by all who knew him…

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a military organization of your choice, ie. Wounded Warriors Project.