Richard Osvog, 79, of Sioux Falls, SD passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025 unexpectedly of a sudden heart failure at Avera Heart Hospital of SD.

A celebration of Richard's life and public Masonic service will begin at 6:00 pm Thursday, February 6, at El Riad Shrine, 510 S. Phillips Ave., Sioux Falls, SD with the family present greeting friends from 4:00 – 6:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the El Riad Shrine Transportation Fund.  Burial will be at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery.

Born to Delonides Benjamin Osvog and Annie Louise Paulsness on October 1, 1945, in Canton, South Dakota.  Richard was a lifelong resident of the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area, except for a few years spent in Long Beach, California while serving our country in the United States Navy. His life was marked by a strong sense of duty, commitment to his family, and a passion for service.

Richard graduated from Canton High School before furthering his education at Augustana University. As a young man, he worked on his parents' farm, gaining a strong work ethic that would serve him throughout his life. After his service in the Navy, which included a tour in Vietnam.  Richard began a distinguished career with John Morrells, where he worked for over 40 years. His colleagues often spoke of his dedication and professionalism.

While Richard was known for his work ethic, it was his love for family and friends that truly defined him. He married Cindy and together they raised a family while building a life full of memories. The couple lived in Long Beach during his time in the Navy before returning to Sioux Falls, where they lived until 2001. In 2001, they moved to a peaceful acreage south of Harrisburg, where they enjoyed two decades of country living. Having been raised on a farm, Richard found joy in returning to the open space of the country and Richard loved being able to give his grandsons tractor rides and other farm life experiences.  In recent years, they returned to Sioux Falls.

Richard was deeply involved in the philanthropic community as a dedicated member of the El Riad Shrine and Minnehaha Masonic Lodge #5 for over 50 years. His contributions to the Shrine were numerous, including serving on the Circus committee since 1972, and holding roles such as circus chairman in addition to serving as a hospital representative and transportation coordinator for the Shriner's Hospital in Minneapolis. Richard's contributions earned him the prestigious Shriner of the Year award, as well as the "Spark Plug" award in recognition for his work with the Rickshaw and Classy Autos units. He was also a dedicated member of the Legion of Honor, serving as Secretary of the Degree Team and assisting with many Masonic events throughout South Dakota.

Beyond his service to the Shrine, Richard was known for his unwavering support of the local community. He was a key figure in Harrisburg Township, helping guide the growth of the area.  Recently, he loved spending time with his grandsons, often attending their activities and making time to connect with them. Throughout his life, Richard also enjoyed being a member of the men's gourmet cooking group, Sioux Falls Greater Cooking Society, coaching his son's soccer teams, and working on the acreage with Cindy resulting in many funny stories.

Above all, Richard was a man who found joy and fun in helping others.  Whether through volunteer activities, work, support of family, or his dedication to community, Richard's legacy is one of generosity, service, fun, and love.

Richard and Cindy were the ultimate hosts, always a powerhouse team when it came to throwing a memorable party. Their decorations were always spot-on, but it was their incredible food that really stood out, often preparing meals for large crowds themselves. Richard had a special talent for connecting with people. If you were out running errands with him, you could count on him to strike up a conversation with just about anyone along the way. Though the errands might take longer with Richard, his genuine ability to make connections was something special.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Cindy, their sons, Erik, Chad and Andrew, daughters-in-law Katie and Amy, grandsons Koen and Jace, sister Deanna Swanson, brother-in-law John Swanson, other family including many cousins, and thousands of friends who were fortunate enough to know him. He was preceded in death by his parents. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his contributions to his family and community will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.