Richard LeRoy

Will

Richard LeRoy Will, 89, of Sioux City, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Holy Spirit Retirement Home, surrounded by his loving family, following a lengthy illness.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Calvary Lutheran Church, with Reverend James Travis and Reverend Alex Smith officiating. Visitation with the family will be Friday, November 13, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., with a Prayer Service at 7:00 P.M., at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel. In true Richard fashion, he requested that everyone wear their favorite Iowa Hawkeye or sports team attire to the visitation. Burial with Military Honors will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Richard was born May 12, 1937, in Sioux City, the son of Emil and Rose (Scheidt) Will. He was a proud graduate of Leeds High School, Class of 1956, and carried that Leeds pride with him throughout his life. Richard was drafted into the United States Army and honorably served his country from February 17, 1960, until March 28, 1962. During his military service, his travels took him to France, Germany, Cuba, and Geneva.

On March 5, 1967, Richard married Therese Helin in Sioux City. Together, they built a life centered on love, faith, and family, and were blessed with four children. Following Therese’s passing in 2011, Richard stepped into the role of both mom and dad with unwavering love and devotion. His children lovingly describe him as simply “the best dad ever.” He was their rock, their biggest supporter, and a constant source of strength and unconditional love.

Richard dedicated more than 60 years of his life to the produce business, working at Piggly Wiggly, IGA, and Fareway. Known for his strong work ethic and friendly personality, he took great pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way. Even retirement couldn't keep Richard from doing what he loved, as he continued working part-time until the remarkable age of 81.

A man of deep faith, Richard was a devoted member of Calvary Lutheran Church and also belonged to the American Legion. His faith was the foundation of his life and guided the kindness, generosity, and love he shared with others.

Richard knew how to enjoy life and never missed an opportunity to spend time with the people he loved. He enjoyed gardening, cheering on the Sioux City Explorers, and, above all, rooting for his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes. To say Richard was the Hawkeyes' number one fan would be an understatement! Whether celebrating a big win or standing by his team through a tough loss, his loyalty never wavered.

Beyond sports, Richard treasured the simple pleasures in life. He loved his coffee gatherings with friends at Super Value and Panera Bread, where good conversation, laughter, and friendship were always on the menu. His New Year's Eve parties were another favorite tradition, bringing family and friends together to celebrate and make lasting memories. Richard had a special way of making people feel welcome, and his friendships were something he truly cherished.

As much as Richard loved his Hawkeyes, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy. He treasured every visit, every celebration, and every opportunity to be together. Being a dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa was what mattered most to him, and the love he gave so freely will remain one of his greatest legacies.

During his time at Holy Spirit Retirement Home, Richard continued to make meaningful friendships and enjoy the little things that made each day special. He especially loved spending time outdoors with his daughter, soaking up the fresh air and sunshine, and he always looked forward to Friday Happy Hour. Even as his health declined, the love of his family and the kindness of those around him brought comfort and joy to his days.

Richard will be remembered for his incredible strength, his steadfast faith, his hardworking spirit, his love of a good time, and, most importantly, his enormous heart. He was a man who showed his love through his actions, who valued family above all else, and who left everyone fortunate enough to know him with memories to treasure forever.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Kevin Will of Sergeant Bluff, IA; Kristin and her husband, Jose Rubalcava, who was like a son to Dick, of Sioux City; and Kimberly “Kim” and her husband, Donovan Convay, of Jefferson, SD; five beloved grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; and his sister, Ruth (Paul) Hultgren of Sioux Falls, SD.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Rose Will; his beloved wife, Therese; his daughter, Karla Kay Will; and his siblings, Joan McGaffey and Ronald Will.

Memorial donations may be directed to Calvary Lutheran Church or Holy Spirit Retirement Home in Richard's memory.

Richard's family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff at Holy Spirit Retirement Home. The love, compassion, and kindness you showed Richard, along with the support you gave our entire family, meant more than words can express. Your care will always be remembered and forever appreciated.