Richard “Dick” Florea peacefully went to be with Jesus and loved ones waiting for him on Sunday, February 11, 2024. He was surrounded by family, who love him dearly.
Dick was born in Fairmount, Indiana, on May 19, 1929, to Charles and Flossie Mae (Hinkle) Florea. He was the youngest of six children. He married the love of his life, Donna (Nelson) Florea, on March 18, 1950. They would have been married 74 years on March 18th of this year.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Joseph, Lee, and Jim; sister, Mary; sons, Richard “Gus” Howell and DeWayne D. Florea. Along with his wife, he is survived by his sister, Madeline Blue; daughters, Bonnie (Phil) Elam and Leslie (Tony) Roberts; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Dick graduated from Fairmount High School at the age of 15 and began his career at the famous Haisley’s Corner. He lived in Grant County, Indiana, his whole life. Throughout the years, he owned the Shell service station at 38th and Washington, co-owner in K & F Oil Company, and owner of Florea Petroleum. He owned four convenient stores that he either built or remodeled completely. He helped build the marina at the Mississinewa Reservoir and installed the gas lines and underground tanks.
He was also an active member of the community. He was an officer in the South Marion Businessmen’s Club, past president of Marion Rehab Program, the Fairmount Lodge 635-A, F. & A. M. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge for 62 years and a 32nd Degree Mason. Dick was a proud Shriner and head of the Scooter Patrol that thrilled people in many parades.
Dick and his wife loved being active members at First Christian Church in Marion, Indiana. Their church family continues to love and support them.
Dick loved fishing. He took several trips to Canada, Michigan, and Indiana with fun-loving friends and family. Over the years, along with his daughter and son-in-law, he and Donna drove to all 49 states. Every state was an adventure.
Dick was an amazing woodworker. He made many projects for family and friends. Good food, Euchre, and an IU basketball game would make his day.
We are so thankful for the many friends who helped make their lives a fun-filled adventure.
When you remember Dick, remember his laugh, his teasing, his practical jokes, his quirky one-liners, and his enormous love of his family and friends.
Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm with Masonic Rites beginning at 7:00 pm on Friday, February 16, 2024, at First Christian Church, 1970 N. Wabash Rd., Marion, Indiana. The Celebration of Life service will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at First Christian Church with visitation one hour prior.
Memorials may be made to The Madina Clinic, in Madina, Sierra Leone, West Africa.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
