Cloudy, 27° F
(June 16, 1922 - May 30, 2012)
Richard “Dick” Hugh Darling died Wednesday, May 30, 2012, in Powell. He was 89.
Born June 16, 1922, in St. Edwards, Boone Co., Neb., he was the sixth of eight children born to Frank S. and Edith Eager Darling. They lived on a farm where he spent his youth. Dick attended a country elementary school, then high school in St. Edwards. He loved the farm and by age 14 was doing a man’s work there before drought and depression hit the state and forced the family to relocate.
They chose Powell for their new life and acquired a small home in south Powell. Dick found work on area farms and eventually worked for Kellar Trucking Co., until he was drafted into the WW II Army in 1942.
He shipped overseas to New Guinea with the 439 Engineering Depot Co. Later, he was deployed to Manila, Philippines, where he operated a crane most of the time. Upon his honorable discharge in 1946, he happily returned to Powell and Kellar Trucking.
He met and married Marjorie Stuart, and acquired a loving stepson, Glenn Bud Stuart. Dick began working at Dick Jones Trucking Co., where he was employed 14 years. After Marjorie’s death from illness, he eventually met and married Bettina C. Graham, and welcomed her son, Jay C., into his life. Before his retirement in 1981, Dick also drove the Panther Bus, worked five years for Park County Road and Bridge Construction, and six years for Gilpatrick Construction of Riverton.
Dick was an outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. Friends and family remember his playful nature and love of laughter. He enjoyed life. He loved dining and dancing, playing cards, and traveling. He and Bettina explored every state in the Union except Alaska. They toured Hawaii, Mexico City, and 11 European countries. They called themselves gypsies and enjoyed every minute.
Dick was community minded. He served Powell as a member of the American Legion, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Powell Senior Center, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a good husband, father, neighbor and friend.
Dick outlived his parents, siblings and stepchildren. He is survived by his loving wife, Bettina, and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family members. His presence in all their lives will be deeply missed.
Memorial services will be 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 6, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Seventh Street in Powell. Those wishing to make memorial gifts should choose their favorite charity.
Thompson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.thompsonfuneral.net or to P.O. Box 807, Powell WY 82435.
