Richard was born on December 28, 1931, to Walter & Wilma Sneddon, in Eastside, Oregon, during the Great Depression. Growing up in Oregon during these challenging times, instilled in him a spirit of perseverance, that would carry him throughout his life. When he was eleven, his younger sister, Jeanne, was born.
After graduating from Lowell High School in 1950, as President of his class, Richard (“Dick”) attended Oregon State University, where he met Margaret Dearborn. After a semester, Dick enlisted in the U.S. Navy, during the Korean War. He completed boot camp in San Diego and was stationed in Hawaii, Japan, and across the Pacific. While serving in Honolulu, he & Margaret were married. They later welcomed two children: Meda Ann (1952) and Steven Richard (1955).
After four years serving in the Navy, with a honorable discharge, & with support from the GI Bill, Dick later earned a degree in Agricultural Education from Oregon State University. His professional career spanned teaching, agricultural leadership, and economic development. He served as Secretary of the American National Cattlemen’s Association, led the International Maine Anjou Association, and served as President of Agricenter International, in Memphis, TN. Dick later became Vice President of Economic Development at the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.
A forty-five year member of Kiwanis International, Dick served as President of the Downtown Kansas City chapter. For more than 30 years, he dedicated himself to service, mentoring, and community growth, forming many lasting friendships along the way.
In 1970, Dick married Barbara (“Barb”) Rudy, and together they built a life filled with love, companionship, and many friends. For 45 years, they were especially close to their cherished friends, Rod and Connie Sommer and their three children. Dick will be remembered for his leadership, perseverance & unwavering commitment to community.
Dick is survived by his wife, Barb; his children, Meda Branwell (Bill) and Steven Sneddon (Tammy); stepchildren, Deborah Dudley (Phil), Bill Rudy (Pat), and Rick Rudy (Sue); along with ten grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Dick & Barb enjoyed being included in many holidays & events, through the many years, at Bill & Pat’s home. And, they were frequently blessed with extra care by the two of them.
A service will be held for Dick on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at McGilley Antioch Chapel, Kansas City, MO. Visitation will be from 10-11:30 a.m. & the funeral at 11:30 a.m.. Burial will follow services at 1:30 p.m. in Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kiwanis International, or a charity of choice.
