Richard J. Kampstra

Richard Kampstra age 91, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2017.  He was born on March 9, 1926 at the family farm in Randolph Township, Columbia County to Jake and Gertrude (Regnerus) Kampstra.  He attended the Rust one room grade school in the town of Courtland.   Richard’s first employment was working for a farmer, Rockwell in Randolph, Borden’s in Columbus and then Feils Bakery in Randolph.  Richard Married Maxine Lytle on August 5, 1950 at the Dalton Bible Church.  He was called to serve his country during the Korean War in December 1951 and entered the United States Air Force.  He attended the Air Police School at Camp Gordon, GA. Serving in the 814^th Air Police Squad.  He received the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Occupational Medal (Germany) attaining the rank of A/1C. he was then transferred to the Air Force Reserve until December of 1959.

Richard later worked for the Fred Rueping Leather Company of Fond du Lac for 15 years and worked for the Columbia County Highway Department for 15 years until his retirement in 1989.  He was a member of the Dalton Bible Church since 1950, as well as being a Trustee and Deacon, he spent many hours working at the church and parsonage remodeling and keeping it in good repair.    Richard also remodeled his own home and built 3 garages.  He enjoyed gardening and sharing the bounty of it with friends and neighbors.

Richard is survived by the four children that blessed his marriage, Rick (Laura) Kampstra of Melbourne, FL.  Sandra Sells (Larry Cone) of Paris, Texas.  Dale Kampstra of Dalton, WI.  And Susan (James) Hahn of Burkburnett, Texas; Grandchildren, Michelle (Brent) Ratzlaff of Meno, OK.  Michael (Michelle) Kampstra of San Antonio, Texas. Emilie (Lance) Owens of Idabel, OK. And Jordan Kampstra of Melbourne, FL; Great Grandchildren, Emma, Ethan and Sadie Ratzlaff, Kate and Maddie Kampstra, Abby Johnson, Autumn, Landon and Ashlyn Owens; brothers, Kenneth and John Kampstra.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Susan Hahn, his brother Paulmer Kampstra and his son-in-law Michael Sells. 

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at DALTON BIBLE CHURCH W6477 East Oak Street, Dalton. With the Reverend George Noll presiding.  Burial will be held in Greenwood Cemetery in Dalton.  Visitation will be held on Saturday from 9:30 am until the time of service at the church.

 Service Information