Richard L. Corey, 89, of Scottsbluff, passed away Monday, Nov. 14, 2011, at Heritage Estates in Gering. A celebration of life service was held Nov. 18, 2011, at Plymouth Congregational Church in Scottsbluff with Pastor Rod Wetzig officiating. Memorials may be made to Plymouth Congregational Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Richard “Dick” was born July 29, 1922, in Austin, Minn., to Constance Lyford Corey and H.H. (Tim) Corey. In his youth, he spent many summers at camps in northern Minnesota where he developed a deep love for wildlife, nature and canoeing. Dick graduated from Austin High School where he played football. After graduation, he attended the University of Nebraska. In 1942, Dick enlisted in the Navy and graduated from Pensacola Naval Air Station as a pilot. He was assigned to the USS Bennington aircraft carrier, where he served in the Pacific. He was awarded the Navy Cross, two Distinguished Flying Crosses and four Air Medals. Dick was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1945. In January 1946, he moved to Scottsbluff with his wife and began working for the Cook Packing Company. A year later, he started Union Livestock Commission Company, followed by LTX Livestock Trucking Company. He built Scottsbluff Packing Company in 1959, which he owned and managed until his retirement. Dick served as president of the Nebraska Livestock Auctions, president of the Rotary Club, and director of the Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Scottsbluff Airport Advisory Board, and was listed twice in “Who’s Who of the Midwest,” 1969-1970 and 1970-1971. Dick was a deacon at Plymouth Congregational Church and was active on many church boards.

Richard married Margarent C. Corey on Aug. 28, 1944, in Virginia Beach, Va. To this union was born one son, Rick. Dick’s hobbies included golfing, fishing, flying and traveling. Above all else, he loved his family and was a humble, kind, gentle man.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret “Lucy,” of 67 years; son, Rick (Donna) Corey; granddaughters, Katie Corey and Kristi (Micah) Ellstrom; brother, Bruce (Betty) Corey of Scottsdale, Ariz.

Preceding Dick in death were his parents and brother, David.