Richard Emery Visser, 72, rural Ada, MN, died on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 17, 1940, to Gust and Esther (Merkins) Visser, in Ada. He was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada. Richard graduated from Ada High School in 1959. He moved to a farm east of Ada, in 1959, with his brothers. Richard stayed on the farm where he continued to milk cows. On November 2, 1968, Richard married Linda Lively at Trinity Lutheran Church, Beltrami, MN. They continued to dairy farm until 1999.
In the following years, Richard raised beef cattle, drove truck for Visser Trenching and pursued his lifelong hobby of raising fancy pigeons. Richard was a lifetime member of Grace Lutheran Church, a longtime member of Ada American Legion and a supervisor of the Lake Ida Township board for many years. Richard served in the Army National Guard from June 30, 1959 to June 29, 1965. He was also an active member of the Holstein Association for nearly 50 years and the National Pigeon Association for 15 years.
Integrity, loyalty and honor describe his character and way of life. His gracious smile and easy going spirit allowed Richard to meet people and develop lifelong friendships. Over the years, deer hunting and, more recently, ice fishing were great times with family and friends. Gatherings with family and neighbors were routine at the Visser home. Richard’s life revolved around family and farming. He was very proud of his sons, their wives and grandchildren. And, Richard adored his wife of 44 years, Linda.
Richard is survived by his wife, Linda, Ada; Ronald (Kari), Dell Rapids, SD; Barry (Shannon) Hutchinson, MN; Tom (Mandy), Braham, MN; six grandchildren: Shaina, Logan, Grant, Rachel, Kayla, and Hannah; brothers, Robert (Joan), Ada; James “Pete” (Phylis), Gary, MN; Earl (Lorayn), Ada; sisters-in-law, Shirley Visser, Ada, and Marlys Visser, Gary, MN; several nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Don and Gerald; and an infant sister, Margaret.
Funeral Service: 11:00am Monday, September 17, 2012, at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada. Visitation: Sunday, September 16, 2012, from 5-7pm with a 7pm prayer service at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada. Burial: Ada City Cemetery, Ada, MN. www.fredriksonfh.com