Richard (Rick) Caroll Lainson III

December 02, 1957 — June 28, 2026

Service Details

Richard "Rick" Lainson, 68, passed away surrounded by his loving family. Rick was born on December 2, 1957, in Des Moines, Iowa, at Iowa Methodist Hospital to Richard C. Lainson II and Carol Lee Lainson.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Carol Fatino; his father, Richard C. "Toad" Lainson II; his sister, Cheri Leigh Chisholm; his younger brother, Rustin S. "Rusty" Lainson; his granddaughter, Xariyah Raylee Johnson; and his beloved dog, Bear.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Geri Lainson; his niece, Angie Carol (Chuck) Jones; and their children and grandchildren: Savannah (Austin), Lita, London Staley, Jacob (Alexa), Maverick and Remi Jones, Evelyn (Dwight), Eternity, D3, Oakland, Aza'riah, and Za'rina Jones. He is also survived by Allie (Mario), Leah, Marlaina, Izabella, Ava, and Andrea Galvin; Jessica (Terrell), Chanell, Malachai, Serenity, and Laila Lainson; Brittany Lainson; his former wife, Donna Johnson; Tobias Jones; Malina Segura; Victoria (Axel) and Kylo Segura; Jennifer Jenkins; Christina (Troy), Christian (Ashley), Oakly and Bodhi; Jaydan Hazelbaker; Dawn Ann; Elizabeth Terrell; Gunnar Lainson; and his cherished dog, Lilo.

Rick proudly served his country as a Private in the United States Army for three years. Throughout his life, he worked in construction and held positions with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Swan Packing, and an animal shelter in South Carolina. He had a deep love for animals and a strong commitment to helping others. Rick especially enjoyed supporting fellow veterans, offering a listening ear, and sharing his experiences with those who served. Above all, he was devoted to his family and was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed.

Rick will be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, and unwavering dedication to both family and friends. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or Wounded Warriors of Central Iowa.

Services will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, Iowa, at a later date.