Richard "Dick" Romp
July 12, 2021
Richard A. Romp was born April 20, 1923, to John and Emma (Raymond) Romp of Albia, Iowa. He passed away peacefully on July 12, 2021, at the age of 98.
Dick graduated from Albia High School in 1941 where he was class Vice President and lettered in track all four years. On January 19, 1943, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as a Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class until his honorable discharge.
He was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Betty” Stuchel on February 15, 1945, in San Mateo, CA. They were blessed with more than 55 years together until her passing in 2000.
Dick worked in sales for G&R Bookkeeping for a short time before owning a tank wagon service, delivering fuel to farmers. Later, he owned and operated Dick’s DX and Dick’s Standard Service until retiring in 1984.
In retirement, he enjoyed traveling, especially to Texas, Florida, and Arizona. For many years, he and Betty wintered in Weslaco, TX. Richard loved to fish, dance, bowl, garden, and mushroom hunt. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed many trips to Canada fishing.
Dick was a member of All Saints Catholic Church and Boline-Manfredi VFW Post 9662 in Des Moines.
No matter where he and Betty resided, their kind and caring personalities attracted a wide circle of friends. Most weekends were spent with friends helping one another and socializing. Dick led a joyous life and was truly loved and respected by all who knew him.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Julie (Stewart) Lewis; grandchildren, Lora (Adam) Smith, Bradley Lewis, and Megan (Jeff) Patterson; great-grandchildren, Cayden, Sydney, Weston, and Blakely; as well as other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; son, John Robert; granddaughter, Ann Marie, and his seven siblings.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 17, 2021, at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 NE 60th Ave. in Des Moines with visitation held at the cemetery one hour prior to service time.
In loving memory of Richard, memorials may be directed to VFW Post 9662, 1309 NE 66th Ave., Des Moines, IA 50313.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Diane Day Vanasco
09/02/2021
Sorry for the late response but I just learned of Dicks passing.
He was one of the happiest men I knew, and my dad, Bob Day, counted him as one of his best friends. My mom loved dancing with him!
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Julie, and your family, as you begin life without his physical presence. However, I know you have wonderful memories you get to keep. Beautiful video!
Diane
Barbara Dye
07/17/2021
Uncle Dick left me so many memories all my life, i could write a book filled with laughter and love. He and aunt Betty gave me so many chapters of life and now the Romp stories are fond memories. Love to our family. from Denise/Denny
Tim Eakins
07/16/2021
I, too, was one of the fortunate to think of Dick as "Uncle Dick". Julie, I know it is a sad time, but always smile when you remember that he was, always and truly, one of the good guys. And he is now with his beloved Aunt Betty.
Bobbi (Lott) Johnson
07/15/2021
I remember my Uncle Dick fondly as a child because his smile could easily lighten hearts as he did mine on occasion.
James Lott
07/15/2021
I remember my uncle very fondly, never speaking harshly of anyone. Just a really nice man.
Mary Vanderpool
07/14/2021
I remember how happy your dad and mom were and the fun times we had centered around softball and band. You were blessed with wonderful parents. My sympathy to you family.
Catherine A Schroeder ( Shelton)
07/14/2021
Im so very sorry for your loss. Hugs to all your family. Miss you, Julie!!
Shelton ❤❤❤❤
Gary Dann
07/14/2021
To Dicks family and friends. I am so sorry for your loss. So many people loved and respected him because of integrity and sincerity. Dick was my first boss at Romps Standard Station. He was also my best boss!
Liz Harris
07/14/2021
Julie:
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. May your memories give you comfort. May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Liz