Independence - Dr. Richard Lee Kimball, 82 years old, of Independence, Iowa, died on Monday, September 1, 2008, at Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa, following a long illness. He was born on November 25, 1925, in Quasqueton, Iowa, the son of Ralph Lee and Nellie Maude (Melick) Kimball. He graduated from high school in 1943 in Independence, Iowa, and then, served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. On August 18, 1946, he and the former Alma Maynard were married at the First Methodist Church in Independence, Iowa. After his military service, he graduated from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa, with a graduate degree in dental science. He established his practice of dentistry in Independence in 1951. He retired in 1989. Dr. Kimball was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Independence, the American Dental Association, Bechter-Boies V.F.W. Post #2440, Sheehan-Tidball American Legion Post #30, the Independence Masonic Lodge #87 A.F. & A.M., and the Declaration Chapter Order of Eastern Star #278. Dr. Kimball enjoyed a range of sporting activities, especially fishing. He was a social being who looked forward to interacting with other people. Meticulous by nature, he was also fair and forgiving to a fault.

Dr. Kimball is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alma, 1 son, Alan (Janine) Kimball of Independence, Iowa, and 2 daughters, Janice (Mrs. David) Van Erem of Waterloo, Iowa, and Nancy Kimball of Columbia Falls, Montana. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren (with one more on the way), and 1 sister, Beatrice Ball of Independence, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 sister.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2008, at the First United Methodist Church in Independence, Iowa, with Rev. Dennis Bailey officiating. Honorary Casket Bearers were Jack Hoglan, Ed Tabor, Duane Geater, Jim Donnelly, Paul Paisley, and Robert Blakesley. Casket Bearers were Dr. Eric Kimball, Nikki Kitner, Carrie Arnold, Emily Dvorak, Abbey Kljucevic, and Rick Sorg. Burial was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Independence. On Wednesday, Sept. 3rd, there was a Military Service at 7:00 p.m. at the White Funeral Home in Independence.