Richard 'Dick' Taylor

April 5, 1931 - September 17, 2020

On Thursday, September 17, 2020, Richard “Dick” Taylor of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away after a long illness, at the age of 89. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Cedar Rapids is assisting the family. Dick was born on April 5, 1931, son of Cash “Otto” and Gladys (Paisley) Taylor. He married Janice Hefti on July 25, 1954 and raised two children, Shelly and Mark. Dick honorably served in the United States Navy during the Korean War from 1949-1953.Upon his discharge, he attended the University of Iowa and Wisconsin School of Mortuary Science. His career included becoming a licensed electrician, a licensed plumber and a licensed funeral director. However, most of his career he worked proudly as a union electrician. He served on the board of the Hawkeye Labor Council and was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers for more than 65 years. Dick had a passion for politics. He served on the Robins City Council and years later, after he retired, he was elected to the Iowa State House of Representatives (2000 – 2009). He was honored and humbled by the opportunity he was afforded to represent his constituents during those years. Dick was a member of Mt. Herman Lodge 263 and Linn County Democrats for more than 50 years. He was also a longtime member of the American Legion, Disabled American Vets and the VFW. He served his fellow vets by accepting an appointment to the Linn County Veteran’s Commission where he tried to make a difference in their lives. He was a proud Iowa Hawkeye, but an avid Iowa Wrestling fan. Survivors include his daughter, Shelly (Joe) Taylor-McVay; and granddaughter, Morgan McVay. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cash and Gladys Taylor; wife, Janice Taylor; brothers, Ronald and Faye Taylor; and son, Mark Taylor.