Richard "Dick" Allen Hardesty

Retired CMsgt Richard Hardesty, 92, of Seffner, Florida, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Melech Hospice House, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer. Born May 19,1933 to Ellen (Swain) and W. Wade Hardesty in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Richard was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother and papa. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952, serving with honor and pride for 24 years, retiring as Chief Master Sergeant. Richard was a proud veteran of the Korean War and Vietnam War and received many medals and awards over his prestigious career.

After retiring he went on to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degree in business, and ended his career teaching government contracting at the University of South Florida.

Richard was Catholic and a member of the Knights of Columbus, Mother Seton Council for over 60 years.

He loved Genealogy and spent much of his retirement researching and publishing a book. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and had many lifelong friends.

Survivors include his wife Rita, of almost 60 years of marriage, daughter Sandra Richards of Seffner, FL, children from a former marriage, son Richard Hardesty II of New Peltz, NY, daughter April (Marty) Nye of Wrightsville, PA, daughter Debbie Deissroth of Sewell, NJ, and brother Michael Hardesty of Cedar Rapids, IA, grandchildren, Thomas Richards, Leo Richards of Seffner, FL, Hunter, Mitchell, Adam, Ricky, Heather, Robert and Grace, and many great and great-great grandchildren. Many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Susan Hardesty, and his sister, Sallyann Orf.

Richard was a member of Nativity Catholic Church for 50 years.

He will be greatly missed.

Special thanks to the Tampa V.A. home based primary care, Dr. Ferguson and team and Lifepath Hospice, Sapphire team.

In lieu of flowers you are welcome to donate to the wounded warrior project in Richards memory.

Service dates and times are pending