Richard Larue Hannold Jr.

Richard Larue Hannold Jr. reunited in heaven with his beloved family members and dear departed friends on February 27, 2020. Having been ill for a number of years, his condition worsened over the last few months. He died peacefully in the W. G. Bill Hefner Liberty Lane Hospice House with his loving Wife by his side. Richard was born February 28, 1946 in Rowan County and was the only son of the late Richard Larue Hannold Sr. and Louise Graham Hannold. In addition to his parents he is predeceased by his sisters Brenda Earnhardt and Sandra Craver; also, nieces Jackie Norcutt Overcash and Christy Blackburn Earnhardt. Left to cherish his memory, “His Blondie”, “His Woman”, “His Best Friend”, and “the love of his life”, his wife Nancy Hartline Hannold. On February 22, 2020 they celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary with family and friends at the Liberty Lane Hospice House. Surviving also is what Richard considered his greatest achievement in life. He raised two sons and was extremely proud watching them become exceptional men. Son Christopher James Hannold, wife Stephanie Bean Hannold and step-grandson Joshua Justin Heath. “Josh's” visits brought pleasure to Richard when they talked about going fishing, beach trips, and “new” shoes. Son Gregory Mark Hannold, wife Janella Boger Hannold and their children and Richard's grandchildren: Sadie Kathryn Hannold, affectionately called “Dumplin” by her Pawpaw. A phrase so dear to him was one she used as a toddler “High to the sky Pawpaw!”. Cody Larue Hannold, was given the 3rd generation namesake of “Larue” to carry on. At birth Pawpaw named him “Wildman” and he is still called Wildman today. Ian Robert Hannold, Pawpaw called Ian “Hot Rod” and taught him to play Chess at a very young age. Many times Hot Rod proved to be quite the challenger for him. Richard is survived by his treasured and dearly loved sister Betsy Overcash, her husband Steve and numerous adored Nieces and Nephews, along with his aunt Margaret Faye Price. He leaves special memories to the “best sister-in-law” Janet Hartline, brother-in-law Jimmie Hartline, brother-in-law Larry Hartline and his wife Deanna. Educated in the Salisbury City Schools, he graduated from Boyden High School. He is a member of the Class of '64. He so enjoyed the fellowship he shared with his classmates. He especially enjoyed those first Saturday of every month brunches when he could attend. They would sit for hours reminiscing, laughing, and loving every minute. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Air Force serving four years. Two years were in Vietnam. Because he loved “jumping out of airplanes”, he was “roped into the Army Rangers” on site by higher officials. The award of the Purple Heart was considered automatic for all wounds received in combat as a result of enemy action. He was our war hero having the battle scars to prove it and earning several combat medals. Richard received his wounds bravely and served his country proudly. After leaving the service he started a poem “VIETNAM”. But because of the emotional feelings it would always bring on, he didn't get it finished until April 30, 1996. A copy was then placed at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D. C. After marrying, Richard sent himself to RCCC, then called Rowan Tech, to become a draftsman. He had a great talent for designing things, especially machinery. Once finished with school he went to work at Salisbury Machinery designing retread machines. He moved to Power Curbers designing curbing machines and then on to Fuchs Systems designing and overseeing the installation of steel melting furnaces. He finished up his career at W. A. Brown as an in-house Industrial Engineer, working to improve throughput and efficiency in the plant. He was a collector of many fine things. From scythes and sickles, to coins, to Big Boy Toys, and his special item the “California Raisins“. His favorite past time before becoming sick was riding his Harley Davidson Heritage Softail Classic with family and friends. He thoroughly enjoyed his time spent in the mountains. He caught a few trout but always threw them “back for another day”. The best times were sitting outside just taking in the view and waiting on that “deer to come back again”. Since his illness caused him to be constantly cold, he moved “His chair” to the beach. There he sat warmed by the sun, felt the sand between his toes and enjoyed life being with his family. Richard was the proudest Grandfather. He loved the times he spent attending the band concerts, sporting and social events, school activities, and any and all projects and outings they were involved in. To him the most important part of his life was when his family got together. It could be a special celebration, a holiday, or just a drop in visit from them. He truly enjoyed these times together, especially hearing the chatter and all the laughter. He has been a member of the Spencer Moose Family Center since 1974. He served in many positions including the Governor for two terms, was a Legionnaire, and held the Fellowship Degree. Whether he was eating, dancing, playing cards, camping at the river park, going to conventions, attending the meetings or just hanging out, he loved and enjoyed all the friendships he made there. The family will receive friends from 11:30 AM to 1 PM Tuesday (March 3) at Summersett Funeral Home followed by the service with the Rev. Dr. Mark Conforti officiating. Interment will follow at the Salisbury VA National Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites conducted by the U.S. Air Force and the Rowan County Veterans Honor Guard. MEMORIALS; In lieu of flowers and in memory of Richard and his faithful departed canine companions, we ask that any donations be made in his name to: SHELTER GUARDIANS, ROWAN COUNTY P.O. BOX 1934, SALISBURY, N. C. 28145-1934, ndix@shelterguardians.org This non-profit organization's purpose is to help provide materials and medical needs of animals in the care of our Rowan County Animal Shelter. President of Shelter Guardians, Inc. Nina Dix trained the first and only “resident” Therapy Dog “Fi”, short for “Semper Fi” for the W. G. Bill Hefner VA Medical Center Liberty Lane Hospice House. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Hannold family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Richard Larue Hannold Jr.

February 28, 1946 - February 27, 2020