Richard Edward Mason, 84, of East Bethel, passed away on Saturday, February 19, 2022, in  Anoka, MN, after a long and valiant fight against the scourge of Alzheimer's Disease that was  accelerated by contracting COVID-19 just twenty days before he died.

Richard Mason was born on June 15, 1937, in Duluth, MN, the son of Edward and Louise  (Trierweiler) Mason. He grew up in Duluth and graduated from Duluth Central High School in  1955. That same year Richard joined the United State Marine Corps (USMC) and served for four  years until he was honorably discharged in 1959. Of his time in the service, he wrote "It gave  me a chance to grow up…and [allowed me to meet] some fine Marines who have turned out to  be everlasting friends. Even though there were no conflicts going on during those four years I  was in, I still had to perform and be ready to defend my country in case there was one. I did my  tour of duty and am proud of my record and service to the US Marine Corps and my country."

While on leave in Duluth in August 1957, Richard met and fell in love with soon to be Merna Mason. Their love blossomed and they married on January 13, 1962. Richard moved to  Minneapolis for work and Merna soon followed. After moving around the Twin Cities for a  short time they settled in Fridley, Coon Rapids, and then finally East Bethel, MN. Along the way  they lovingly raised three children: Daniel, Deanna, and Darren.

Semper Fi, My Love

While Richard's working life was dedicated to being a nearly 40-year Teamster - driving tractor trailers and working loading docks - he was also an avid amateur historian, hunter, fisher, and  general lover of the outdoors. Richard also loved old-style country music, with Hank Williams  Sr., George Jones, and Loretta Lynn among his absolute favorites. He also maintained an  extensive library and was quite well read – with particular interest on historical topics – ranging  from military to political to scientific.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Edward (1974) & Louise (2011) and his sister, Louella (2008) & Iris (2005). He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Merna; daughter, Deanna Prince (and husband James  Prince); his sons, Daniel and Darren; three grandchildren, Adam, Catherine, & Jameshia, as well as three beautiful great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service for Richard will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2022, starting at 11:00am with a Visitation one hour prior at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home in Anoka.

Following the Service there will be a Reception from 1:00-4:00 pm at the American Legion Edward B. Cutter Post 102, 400 W Main St, Anoka MN 55303.

Richard will be buried at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery later in the spring.