Richard "Dick" Colson

Richard “Dick” Colson, 89, of Belford, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Born on December 10, 1936, at home in Belford, he was the son of the late Albert and Nina (Johnson) Colson. A lifelong resident of the community he cherished, Dick built a life rooted in hard work, family, and quiet service to others.

He owned and operated Colson Septic Tank Service, known throughout the area for its reliability and quality. He later worked for the Thomas Procter Company in Long Branch and became a proud dockbuilder with Trevcon Construction and as a longtime member of Dockbuilders Local Union 1456 of New York. Dick and his beloved wife, Isobel (Lockwood), raised four children and shared many happy years traveling together. They especially enjoyed trips to Norway and Alaska, as well as peaceful days at Sandy Hook State Park. Dick loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing, and the camaraderie of friends at his hunting cabin in upstate New York, where his devoted bird dog, Scout, was always by his side.

Deeply committed to his community, Dick was a life member of the Belford Engine Fire Company and served as Captain in 1971. He was also a lifelong member of Belford United Methodist Church and volunteered with Noreg Lodge #3-466, McCormack’s Farm in Middletown, and The Barn for the Poorest of the Poor, quietly helping wherever he was needed. Those who knew him will remember his strong work ethic, his kindness, his friendly and easygoing nature, and his readiness to lend a hand to anyone.

Dick was predeceased by his wife, Isobel Colson; his daughter, Kathryn “Kathy” Walzer; his parents; and his siblings Robert, Leonard, Norman, Gloria, Helen, Doris Willis, Alvin, Albert, and Marion Colson. He is survived by his children Sharon Trautvetter of California, Richard “Rick” (Charlotte) Colson of Aberdeen, New Jersey, Thomas Walzer of Edmonds, Washington, and Daniel “Dan” (Patricia) Colson of North Middletown, New Jersey, as well as many extended family members and friends. He was a proud grandfather to Scott Colson, Andrea (Rich) Rivera, Benjamin Walzer, and Jonathan (Kysa) Walzer, and a loving great-grandfather to Jack, Satine, and Wesley.