Richard Allen Hessling

Richard Allen Hessling, 86, of Lakota, North Dakota, formerly of Grand Forks, passed away peacefully on September 15, 1939, in Grafton, North Dakota, to Mildred (Dammen) and Bernhard Hessling. He graduated from Starkweather High School in 1957 and enlisted in the United States Air Force on May 8, 1958, serving honorably until June 15, 1962. During his service, he was stationed in Japan and Germany, where he worked as an aircraft mechanic.

On September 26, 1964, Richard married the love of his life, Sandra “Sandi” Melville. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family. They welcomed two children, Kory and Kara, and shared 61 years of marriage. Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found his greatest joy in the family he and Sandi created. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren and took quiet pride in watching his family grow. His steady presence, kind heart, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Richard’s faith in God guided his life, shaping the way he treated others and the values he passed on to his family. His quiet devotion and kindness reflected the deep beliefs he carried throughout his years.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Sandi; his son, Kory (Brenda) Hessling; and his daughter, Kara (Tim) Kujawa. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Robert (Eileen) Hessling, and sister-in-law Peggy Wallace. Richard was the proud grandfather of Hilary, Timothy (Kjersten), Ricky, Danny, Jose, and Moises, and great-grandfather to Timothy and Warren. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will remember him with love, including special friends Gary and Anne Trenda. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Bernhard Hessling; his brother and sister-in-law, Ray (Dorothy) Hessling; his parents-in-law, Alice and Leslie Melville; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James “Jim” (Sandy) Melville; his niece, Kim Yotter; and his great-niece, Sara Ludovissie.