Richard Eugene (Dick) Godfrey (94) of Rapid City, South Dakota passed away on Thursday May 11, 2023.

He was born in Vale, South Dakota on February 8, 1929. His parents were Spencer and Margaret Godfrey. Dick spent his childhood on his parent’s farm in Vale. He then moved to Lodge Grass, Montana to attend high school. This is where he met and married his wife, Clara, of 64 years until her death in 2012. Dick and Clara raised three children together.

In his early days, Dick worked in the Homestake goldmine in Lead, South Dakota. He then moved to Rapid City and worked as test crew foreman on the Titan Missiles. He enjoyed a long career as a plumber and pipe-fitter for Mellgren’s Plumbing and other companies, overseeing plumbing and heating installation at many construction projects. He was also an instructor, teaching apprentice welding for the local union. For over 62 years, Dick was a proud member of the U. A, Local No. 192 Plumbers and Pipe-fitters.

Dick liked to spend his healthier days hunting, fishing, gardening, and wood-working. He was a master tinkerer and could fix just about anything. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and was a great mentor and storyteller.

He is survived by his daughters, Patti and Holly, seven grandchildren, and numerous great and great-great grand children. He is pre-deceased by his wife and son, Terry.