Richard Paul Cummings, 67, of Austin, died at his home Thursday morning, March 31, 2011 with his wife, Josie, at his side.

He was born Aug. 24, 1943, in Austin to Harold and Esther (Bunge) Cummings. Richard attended Austin High School and Austin Community College. On Nov. 4, 1967, he married Josie Gamez. He worked as a laborer at Hormel for nearly 41 years, served as Mower County Commissioner for 32 years, a board member of Faith Evangelical Free Church, a member of Mower County Horticultural Society and Mower County Historical Society. Richard loved the Lord and wanted to serve Him whenever and wherever he could. Richard enjoyed golfing, gardening, games, the Twins, Vikings and spending time with his wife, family and friends.

Richard is survived by his wife, Josie; son, Wayne (Amy) Cummings of Cleveland, Ohio; daughter, Gina (Peter) Jones of Medford, Ore.; grandson, Joshua Cummings; extended family, Barbara Lewis, Bill and Sharon Lewis. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John; sisters, Lois Cummings and Evelyn Cummings.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 5, at Faith Evangelical Free Church at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Mike Sager officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday at Worlein Funeral Home, Austin and at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Lansing Cemetery with American Legion Post 91 and VFW Post 1216 in charge of military rites. Memorials are preferred to Faith Evangelical Free Church, to Mower County Historical Society or donors choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.