John Gaffney

    John Richard (Dick) Gaffney, 81, of 200 3rd Street South, Swaledale, Iowa died Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at his home.
    Funeral services were held Monday, April 16, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rockwell, Iowa.  Officiating was Msgr. John Hemann. Internment was in Pleasant

Valley Cemetery, Swaledale.  Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Swaledale Fire Department.  Condolences may be shared with the family on the funeral home website at www.Fullertonfh.com
    John Dick was born to John and Dorothy (Gibson) Gaffney on Feb. 12, 1931 in Mason City, Iowa.  He was a graduate of Swaledale High School.  He began working for John Jinrich’s implement dealership and later started his carpentry career with Harvey Polsdofer.  After a few years, he began his own carpentry business where he worked for the next 50 plus years.  John Dick joined the Swaledale Fire Department in the early 1950’s and became chief in the early 1960’s.  He retired as chief in 1995 and continued his support of the fire department as an honorary member.  On Jan. 29, 1951 he was united in marriage to Lucille Priebe.  John Dick built their home in Swaledale where they raised their two sons.  They were happily married for 60 years until Lucille’s passing last year. 
    Over the years, he enjoyed hunting, playing pool, and golfing with his buddies. He also loved watching sports and playing cards weekly with the guys.  He had a special love for animals especially his cat, Sophie.  John Dick was admired and respected by those whose lives he touched. 
    Survivors include his two sons, John Randall of Boulder, Colo.; Edward and his wife, Lorena, Swaledale; five grandchildren, Catherine Riegle, Terra Gaffney-Simmer, Sarah Novacek, Angela Sturges, and Benjamin Gaffney; five great-grandchildren, Bridget Gaffney, Brooke Gaffney-Simmer, Tyler and Ethan Riegle and Grant Novacek; one sister, Anne Jane and her husband, Tony Castro, Sebring, Fla.; and his in-laws, Luella and Jim Bonner, Clear Lake; Gene and Miriam Jaberg, New Brighton, Minn.; and many nieces and nephews.
    John Dick was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert; and wife, Lucille.
    Fullerton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Rockwell, was in charge of arrangements.