Rick Conn

Richard Lewis “Rick” Conn, beloved husband, father, grandpa, and lifelong public servant, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 15, 2025, in Norwalk, Iowa. He was 76 years old-and would probably tell you himself that he had a good run.

Born August 10, 1949, in Des Moines, Rick was the son of George and Irene (Russell) Conn. He grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Des Moines Tech High School in 1967. He went on to attend the University of Iowa before proudly serving in the United States Navy, where he trained as a firefighter. After his military service, he returned to Iowa City to continue his education.

In 1972, Rick met the love of his life, Linda Kathryn Shorney, while both were working at Blue Cross and Blue Shield. They married on May 27, 1972, in David City, Nebraska, and spent the next 53 years building a life together. Together, they raised two children, Amanda and Jim, and later welcomed a grandson, Brexton, who quickly became Rick’s favorite little sidekick. He would’ve done anything for his kids-and often did, with equal parts wisdom and a well-timed dad joke.

Rick joined the Iowa State Patrol in 1973, where he served with pride and distinction for over three decades, retiring in 2004. But slowing down was never really his style-he went on to work nearly 14 more years at the Federal Courthouse in Des Moines. Whether in uniform or not, Rick had an unwavering sense of duty and a strong belief in doing what was right.

He didn’t just show up-he got involved. Rick served for many years as president of the Iowa State Troopers Association, where he proudly championed efforts to improve Peace Officer Retirement benefits. He also served as District #2 Union Steward and edited the Iowa Trooper magazine. Beyond that, he was active with the South Central Iowa Peace Officers Association, the National Troopers Coalition, and the Iowa Lions Eye Bank.

His dedication extended beyond law enforcement. Rick was a familiar face and enthusiastic volunteer in Osceola, serving on committees for community athletics, recreation, housing, and the 4th of July festivities. He was a charter member of the Eagles Lodge Aerie #3495. You could always count on him to show up, pitch in, and bring others along for the ride.

What people remember most about Rick, though, wasn’t just his titles or accolades-it was his quick wit, booming laugh, and that unmistakable sparkle in his eye. He had a playful sense of humor that could lighten any room and a knack for storytelling that made everyone feel like an old friend. Rick didn’t take life too seriously, and he made sure the people around him didn’t either. But when it came to loving his family or standing up for what mattered, he was all in.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, George and Irene Conn; brother, Alfred George “Tick” Conn; sister, Shirley Hupp; niece, Claudia Calcagno; father-in-law, Harvey Lehr; mother-in-law, Olga Lehr; and sister-in-law, Patricia Comte.

He leaves behind a family that adored him: his wife and best friend of 53 years, Linda Conn; daughter Amanda (Thad) O’Brien of Des Moines, IA; son Jim Conn of Sargent, NE; and his cherished grandson, Brexton O’Brien, who brought joy, energy, and a little extra sparkle to Rick’s later years. Also surviving are his sister Jane Guinetti of Des Moines, IA; sister-in-law Karen (Mike) Johnson of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law Don (Pam) Shorney of Columbus, NE; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends-too many to list, but all better off for having known him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Rick’s honor at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Osceola on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with Father Tom Tomson officiating. Visitation will be held Friday evening, September 19, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kale Funeral Home. A livestream of the services will be available at www.kalefuneralhome.com for those unable to attend.

Following the funeral, interment with honors by the Iowa State Patrol Honor Guard will take place at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines at 2:00 p.m., and all are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to:

St. Bernard Catholic Church

222 E. Pearl, Osceola, IA 50213

or

Alzheimer’s Association

225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601-7633

Rick Conn lived a life of service, laughter, love, and integrity. He will be deeply missed-but never forgotten.