Richard Lee Hargrove

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Grand Rapids Press on March 15, 2010:

Richard Lee Hargrove of Hastings, MI passed away in his home Monday, March 8 at the age of 78. He is survived by two sons, David and Richard Hargrove, three stepsons, Steve, Pat and Mike Smith and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce, who passed August 10, 2008. Born in Sidney Ohio on September 17, 1931, he graduated from West Point and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, serving two terms in Vietnam, two in Germany and a tour in South Korea. Col. Hargrove received over twenty decorations including the Soldier's Medal, Legion of Merit and three bronze stars. After his retirement from the Army, he served as Director of Army Instruction supervising the JROTC programs for the Grand Rapids Public schools. In life he was the consummate gentleman and immediately loved by all he met. His life's philosophy can best be summarized by the following poem from Edward Guest. I'd like to think when life is done That I had filled a needed post. That here or there, I'd paid my fare, With more than idle talk and boast. That I had taken gifts divine, The breath of life and adulthood fine, And tried to use them now and then In service for my Countrymen. Rest well beloved man. You did your duty. Internment of his (and his late wife's) ashes will take place at 10:00 AM. Friday March 19th at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Agusta, MI. A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings, MI the same day at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Barry County Red Cross.

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