Richard "Dick" Lorenzen, a beloved figure in the community and an extraordinary family man, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, in Denison, Iowa, at the age of 92. Born on July 8, 1932, in Deloit, Iowa, Dick lived a life defined by hard work, unwavering dedication, and unconditional love for his family.
After graduating from Deloit High School in 1951, he proudly served in the Army from 1952 to 1954, earning the National Defense Service Medal. Following his military service, Dick embarked on a remarkable career as a truck driver, marking his career with integrity and a commitment to safety. He began his working life with Rattenberg Produce and Dixon Lumber before dedicating himself to a long-standing career with various trucking companies. In 1970, he took a significant step when he and his devoted wife, Carolyn, purchased their own truck. Dick's journey as a professional driver truly thrived when he joined Farmland in 1979, where he worked with distinction until his retirement in 1999. His remarkable record of more than 4 million accident-free miles speaks volumes of his exceptional skill and responsibility. In honor of his heroism, he received commendation from the State of Iowa for saving the lives of five individuals during his career.
Outside of work, Dick embraced the joys of life with enthusiasm. He cherished time spent with family, indulging in snowmobiling, gardening, and yard work. His spirit of adventure shone brightly as he traveled the United States with Carolyn following her retirement in 2004.
He leaves behind a loving family who will carry forward his legacy. Dick is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, his cherished children: Sandy (Louie) James, Rick (Jodi) Lorenzen, and Wendy (Jeff) Frank. His affection extended to his cherished brothers and sister in-laws, including Dorthy Dozler, Donald Nemitz, Mary (Ron) Zeimen, Barbara (Donald) Kahl, David (Janice) Nemitz, Donna Lorenzen, and cherished grandchildren: Eric (Christine) James, Beka (Casey) Polacek, Lydia James (Matt Wilkinson), and Alex (Emma) Frank, along with his beloved great-grandchild, Max Polacek and many nieces and nephews.
While Dick's absence will forever be felt, he is reunited in the eternal embrace of his parents, Martin A. and Lydia Lorenzen, and his siblings Martin L. (Alyce) Lorenzen, Harry Lorenzen, John (Waldine) Lorenzen, Helen (William) Peters, Laverne (Richard) Gampp, Carl Lorenzen, Robert (Bev) Lorenzen, in-laws Fred (Geri) Nemitz, Robert Nemitz, Earl Dozler, and Sandi Nemitz, all whom he loved deeply.
As we gather to honor Dick's vibrant life, he will be remembered not only for his extraordinary accomplishments but for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to family. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Denison, followed by a memorial service at 10:30 AM at Faith Lutheran Church in Deloit on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
Dick's life may have come to a close, but his legacy of love, devotion, and courage will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Please address all memorials to Faith Lutheran Church or to Faith Lutheran Church Ladies Aide.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Richard "Dick" Lorenzen, please visit our flower store.
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