Richard Havener, 94

Richard Havener, 94

Richard Dean Havener passed away peacefully at St. John’s Lutheran Home in Albert Lea, MN on January 2, 2025 at the age of 94. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Jessie Havener and Vivian Lucille (Meck) Havener; siblings Beverly Cambern, Shirley Plevka, Donna Speiker, and Robert Havener; and his life partner Patricia Burrows.

Richard was truly one of a kind. While he was decidedly ‘old school’ in his approach to life, he can perhaps be best described as a modern-day ‘Renaissance Man.’ His exploits, interests, hobbies, and life experiences were wide-ranging and seemingly insatiable.

Richard was born in Austin, MN on July 17, 1930. After graduation from Austin High School he joined the US Navy. Richard served aboard the USS Stormes destroyer during the Korean War, and sailed half-way around the world to Korea, from both directions. He was later stationed at Naval Station Great Lakes, where he trained Naval Cadets (and also taught ballroom dance!). Following his discharge from the Navy, Richard went to work for a major military contractor in California as a Fire Control Specialist on submarines. On more than one occasion his boat was forced to evade enemy depth charge attacks. Because his exploits were often confidential, when asked where he was headed, Richard’s pat answer was often “I’m going to Kukamonga…”

Richard’s interests continued to expand throughout his life. While living for a time in Spain, he had the opportunity to hear virtuoso classical guitarist Andres Segovia in concert. This inspired Richard to purchase a guitar and learn to play. Eventually he even took lessons from Segovia himself, and became quite an accomplished classical guitarist. Later Richard took up stained glass art, creating and selling various pieces of his own design. He also loved to bake and decorate cakes, including wedding cakes. When it came to food, Richard’s favorites varied widely-from Italian food to ice cream to Cheerios. But perhaps one of his greatest passions was cars-it seems that he bought a new one practically every year, and each one was meticulously well cared-for as long as he owned it.

Richard loved people, but the one love of his life was Patricia Ann Burrows. Together they settled in Connecticut where Pat and her sisters opened a clothing store called the Taj Boutique in New London. Richard supported Pat’s enterprise in any way he could, including by sewing and doing alterations at the shop.

Perhaps Richard’s influence on people can be best described by his grandson Eden: “Gramps was my best friend! He always made you feel loved when you walked through the door.” Indeed he did.

Richard also had a special place in his heart for his dog Tar and little Teddy.

The family is truly grateful for the care and compassion provided by all of Richard’s caregivers at St. John’s and the Memory Care unit, as well as the St. John’s Chaplain, and the wonderful St. Croix Hospice workers. We also wish to thank all the bus drivers who provided Richard with rides to and from the clinic.

A celebration of life open house will be held from 2-4PM on Friday, January 17, 2025 in the chapel at St. John’s Lutheran Community. Burial will be at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Drive Safe.