Donald Rich

Donald J. Rich, 89 of Wayland, died Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at the Parkview Home in Wayland.

Funeral Services have been set for 10:30 AM Tuesday, May 7, 2013 at the Wayland First United Methodist Church with Pastor Jason Collier officiating. Burial with full military honors with American Legion Post #29 will be in the Wayland Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-7 Monday at the Wayland First United Methodist Church. A Masonic Service will be held at 7:00 PM. Beatty Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. A Memorial in the name of Donald Rich has been established for the Wayland Cemetery Association, Great River Hospice and the Parkview Home.

Don was born December 5, 1923 in Wayland, IA the son of Forest Milo and Lillie N. (Bain) Rich. He graduated from Wayland High School and served in the US Army during WW II with the 101 ^st Airborne. He was united in marriage to Mary A. Statler on April 11, 1948 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA.

He was a faithful and active member of the Wayland First United Methodist Church, Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, American Legion, National Mail Carriers Association; Chaplain for 10 years and a United Methodist Lay Speaker. He was a farmer and rural mail carrier, retiring in 1986. He enjoyed bible studies and discussions, reading, watching sports, military presentations,Masonic rites and spending time with family. He is co-author, with Kevin Brooks of the book “Glider Infantryman, Behind the Lines in WW II.”

He is survived by his wife Mary of Wayland, daughters, Sandra Hasler and husband Jim of Craig, Co and Joan Rodgers and husband Dave of Mt. Pleasant; brother Albert Rich and wife Wilma of Mt. Pleasant; four grandchildren, Rob and wife Jennifer Wells, Justin, Tyler and wife Angie Rodgers, Craig and wife Jessica Rodgers; great-grandson Ganon Rodgers.

He was preceded in death by his parents.