Richard A. Jorgenson, 80, died July 27, 2013, in Tucson, Ariz.

Richard was born Feb. 9, 1933, in Austin, Minn., “Spamtown USA.” He attended and graduated from St. Augustine School. Richard served in the Air Force during the Korean War. He later married his little blonde, Mary Ann, on April 27, 1957, at Queen of Angels in Austin where they remained to raise their five children.

Dad worked as a milkman, bartender, restaurant owner (a few times) and of course was Mr. Seven Eleven at Pima and Craycroft for 25 years. He was most recently a crossing guard for TUSD. His most important job was that of the “pilot” of our family, with Mom as his “co-pilot.” A man of few words, he was as tender as a bear and as true a person as he could be. Richard was always proud to tell your where he was from, where he had been, and that he and Mary had five kids, five dogs and all of the stories in between. He loved his Vikings & Twinkies even after leaving the snow for the desert in 1978.

He was preceded in death by his parents Nels and Alice Jorgenson; sisters Shirley Williamson and Betty Engelman; son Thomas; and grandson Joshua.

Richard is survived by his wife of 56 years and co-pilot Mary Ann; sons John (Laura) Jorgenson, Bob (Lori) Jorgenson and Mike Jorgenson; daughter Beth Jorgenson; grandfather of Zach, Michelle, Kayleigh, Andrew, Graham, Spencer, Nicholas, Collin and Hunter; and great-grandfather of Austin.

There are so many memories that fill our hearts that will someday ease the pain of losing our husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He showed us how to get up every morning and embrace life to the fullest. Not to be shy and to try new things, rub some dirt in it, get up, take a shower, brush your teeth and comb your hair, and if you haven’t used it in three months, get rid of it!

Visit the online guestbook at www.VistosoFH.com.