Obituary-Richard Huddleston, 53

Richard Stuart Huddleston was born in Eads, Colorado on May 11, 1950 to Max and Mary Louise Huddleston of Towner. He departed this life on March 17, 2004 in Towner.

Rick began his schooling in Towner, graduating from Plainview High School in 1968. While in school, Rick lettered in football, basketball, baseball and track all four years of his high school career. He was voted on the all-state defense high school football squad in 1967. He was also active in student council, band, 4-H and his church. After graduation, Rick continued farming with his family and attended college in Rangely before being drafted into the Army in February of 1971. While in the Army, he served in Vietnam in the 196th Infantry Division. He was awarded several medals during his service including: the Bronze Star, National Defense overseas service medal, the Army Commendation medal, the Sharpshooter Badge and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged in November of 1972.

Upon being released from the Army, he returned to Towner and worked for Anderson Oil Company. On April 7, 1973, he was united in marriage to Donna Howerton. To this union was born one son, Jason Richard.

Several years later, Rick moved to Burlington and was working with his brothers Mike and Larry at Plains Feeders. While in Burlington, he was involved in the VFW Post 6491 and served as Post Secretary for four years as well as Post Commander during 2002/2003. He was instrumental in the acquisition and construction of the Service Member Memorial. This bold helicopter monument is located on east Rose Avenue in Burlington.

Rick was an active member of the Prairie Plains Golf Club serving as president for two years. In recent years, Rick enjoyed competing in various golf tournaments. He and Jason were known to "clean house" at tournaments the two of them competed in.

Rick's nieces and nephews were able to count on his attendance to all of their school and sporting events; something looked forward to by all.

Rick is survived by his son Jason of Colorado Springs, his mother, Mary Louise of Towner, two sisters; Sharon and husband Dick Scott of Towner, and Jerene and husband lan DeBono of Granada, two brothers; Mike and wife Julie of Burlington and Larry and wife Shellie of Burlington, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Max and his brother Doug. Memorial donations can be sent to William Holgate, VFW Post #6491, 884 Rose Avenue, Burlington, CO 80807 or to the Towner Ambulance/Fire Department, c/o Susan Greenfield, 78255 College Avenue, Towner, CO 81071.