Richard John Urena

Friday, March 7, 2014

Richard John Urena, 81, of Nevada, Mo., passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2014, at Christian Healthcare, in Nevada. He was born June 23, 1932, in Tucson, Ariz., one of nine children born to Valentine Gallego and Mary Helen (Meza) Urena. His siblings included Walter, Freddie, George, Beatrice (Betty), Michael, Thomas, Virginia, and Helen.

Richard attended school in Arizona then entered the United States Marine Corps where he served our country for more than 25 years from 1950-75, during both the Korean Conflict and Vietnam era. He was a recipient of the Good Conduct Medal; China Service Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Korean Service; Vietnam Service Medal; Korean Presidential Unit Citation; RVNMUC Gallantry Cross Color w/palm & frame; United Nations Service Medal; RVN Campaign Medal w/60; Certificate of Commendation; Rifle Badge (Expert); Pistol Badge (Expert); Combat Action Ribbon; Presidential Unit Citation; and Navy Unit Commendation. After retiring from military duty, he settled in Kansas City, then to a small farm near El Dorado Springs, and finally made Nevada his home for the past several years. Richard was a long-time member of the Nevada Eagles Lodge and the Nevada American Legion Post. He was an avid fan of Pro Football

Survivors include his two sons, Thomas Urena, of Lenexa, Kan., and David Urena and Marsha, of Sheldon; his stepmother, Otilla; grandchildren, Aaron Reed, David Gard, Thomas Urena, and Keith Urena; and great-grandchildren, Karliegh and Cason.

Funeral services for Richard John Urena are scheduled for 11 a.m., today, at the Ferry Funeral Home. Interment with military funeral honors will follow in Moore Cemetery, Nevada.

Contributions may be made in Mr. Urena's name to Vernon County Cancer Relief in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.