Richard W. Levens

Richard W. Levens of Fountain Hills passed away on Dec. 26, 2017 in the comfort of his home with his family by his side.

He was born in Minneapolis, Minn. to Virgil and Margaret Levens and graduated from Patrick Henry High School. In addition to his high school studies, he mastered the trade as a meat cutter at National Tea. After graduation from high school he was drafted into the United States Army, serving in the Korean War from 1950 until his honorable discharge in 1952.

After completing military service he married the love of his life, Alvira Levens, whom he met on a blind date through a friend. Dick followed in the footsteps of his father and two brothers serving in law enforcement for the Minneapolis Police Department.

His diligence and dedication to duty enabled him to achieve the rank of lieutenant. One of his responsibilities was weekly appearances on the local television segment of Crime Stoppers. After 25 years of faithful service Dick retired from law enforcement and relocated to Mille Lacs Lake Minnesota where he and his wife enjoyed a peaceful life in their home on the lakefront.

He enjoyed his retirement taking full advantage of sailing on his catamaran, fishing, deer hunting, gardening and reading. His favorite pastime was listening to music. He was the classic “foodie” who enjoyed sharing his tastes and joy of cooking with family and friends. He had great admiration and love for horses.

In 2013 Richard and his wife, Vi, moved to Fountain Hills escaping the unbearable frigid winters of Minnesota to enjoy the immaculate weather of Arizona.

Dick will be greatly missed for his character, kindness, love and dedication to his wife and family. His incredibly high moral standards were an inspiration to anyone who had the honor and privilege to know him. He was a proud veteran who honored and loved America and what it stands for.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Alvira of 65 years; his two daughters, Lore Vanderboegh of Fountain Hills and Sandra Dowdle of White Bear, Minn. and their spouses, Greg Vanderboegh and Dean Dowdle. He was blessed with seven grandchildren, Lukas, Joshua, Amy, Heidi, Jeremy, Lisa, and Daniel and three great grandchildren, Crispin, Sutton and Stella.

He is survived by his brother, Robert Levens and his wife, Janice of Plymouth, Minn. His other brother, Douglas preceded him in death as did his father Virgil and mother Margaret.

A memorial service will be conducted at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in January. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be given in his name to Infinity Hospice of the Valley.