The Richmond News, Jan. 19, 2024

Richard Vandiver

Richard L. “Dick” Vandiver, 93, of Richmond passed away Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Dick was born June 8, 1930, in Camden, the son of Roy Dean and Flossie (Woods) Vandiver. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Jean Nichols of Camden on Jan. 21, 1950. She preceded him in death on Dec. 3, 2008. Survived by his loving family, Dick is remembered fondly by his son, Perry (Karen) Vandiver of Richmond; two daughters, Kathy Vandiver Lasiter of Orrick and Sherry VanDierendonck of Liberty. His legacy also extends to six grandchildren: Tracy (Patrick) Pierson, Mendy Murphy, Amy (Mike) Best, Keri (Chris) Best, Katie Gibson and Karley Vandiver.

Additionally, he leaves behind 14 great-grandchildren: Logan Murphy, Paige (Sean) Utley, Lexi Pierson, Kain Pierson, Ava Murphy, Thomas Murphy, Arthur Best, Parker Best, Graysen Best, Hope Best, Emmersen Best, Indzley Myers, Vince Myers and Zain Myers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; grandson, Trent Alan Vandiver; five brothers, Bob G. Vandiver, Don Rae “Hogan” Vandiver, Jewel Vandiver, Harold “Toad” Vandiver and R.D. “Dag” Vandiver; two sisters, Anna Jo Middleton and Billie Hicks; and two sons-inlaw, Dennis VanDierendonck and Cam Lasiter.

Dick’s journey unfolded in the heart of his birthplace, where he received his education and graduated in 1949 from Camden High School.

He worked in construction with his brother, Jewel Vandiver, prior to farming with his mother and brothers, Bob and Harold. This was not just a livelihood; it was the shared passion that bound the family together.

Through the years, Dick remained committed to tilling the land of his roots. Dick was a cherished soul known by the endearing nickname “Bullhauler,” which he earned for the many miles he traveled hauling cattle. In 1970, his son Perry joined him in sowing the seeds of a multigenerational farming operation. Dick’s life was a testament to hard work.

His strength, resilience and determination for which he faced life’s challenges will always be an inspiration. He leaves behind a legacy that stretches across the fields he tended and the hearts he touched.

He was a member of the Richmond Shrine Club; the Camden Masonic Lodge, where he had just received his 70-year pin for membership; and the Ararat Shrine in Kansas City. He also was on the Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center board for 38 years.

Dick was of the Methodist faith and a past active member of the Camden United Methodist Church. His involvement in the community showed his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

He loved taking care of his family because he was the last of his siblings. He was the patriarch of the Vandiver family. He loved big and treated everyone like one of his own. He was “Pappaw” to many people in the community. He will always be remembered for his huge heart and contagious smile.

He was grateful for every day and never complained about anything. He had a positive attitude about him that we should all aspire to have. His excitement and joy for life was evident. We will miss hearing his hoots and hollers, our trips to the casinos, his singing, stories of the past, witty sayings and his loud cheering voice at sporting events.

As we celebrate Dick’s life well-lived, his memory will linger in the hearts of family and friends. His life serves as a genuine testament to the profound impact of a man who loved and was loved in return.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Richmond Shrine Club. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. A Masonic service was scheduled for 5:45 p.m., prior to visitation, at the funeral home.

Funeral services were scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at the funeral home. Dick also was to lay in state from 8 a.m. until service time Wednesday.

Burial was to follow the services in South Point Cemetery, Orrick.

Please share your memories of Dick with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.