Richard Douglas Lane, age 82, of Carlisle, IA, formerly of Albia, IA, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Carlisle Care Center.
Richard was born on July 28, 1944, at the hospital in Rock Island, IL, to Francis E. and Gladys A. (Mahin) Lane. He grew up and attended school in Avery before graduating from the Albia High School with the Class of 1962. Following high school, Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1962-1970. In 1966, he was united in marriage to Maria Rosey Cajis in the Philippines, and they were blessed with 2 children, Adoracion and Robert. Richard and Maria later divorced.
Upon returning home from the service, Richard attended Iowa State University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries & Wildlife Biology. Throughout his working years, Richard held several jobs that allowed him to pursue his interests. In his younger years, he worked at the zoo in Iowa City before working at Ledges State Park as a biologist where he enjoyed feeding the animals and guiding hikes. Richard later moved to Slater, where he worked at Woodward State Hospital School. He later worked as a machine operator in Boston for 15 years and lastly as a phone operator for Social Security in Coralville and Des Moines before retiring in 2006.
Richard was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping. He had a deep appreciation for nature and especially enjoyed feeding the birds and wildlife. Richard was also very patriotic and proud of his service to his country. Above all else, Richard cherished the time spent with his family and friends.
Richard is survived by his children, Adoracion “Dory” (Lawrence) Anthony and Robert F. Lane; 3 grandchildren, Erik, Jonathon, and Austin; 2 sisters, Carol J. (Fred) Athey and Linda (Nathan) Hopkins; an aunt, Phyllis Lane; and a sister-in-law, Wilma Lane. Richard is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Gladys Lane and a brother, Ronald F. Lane.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Union Chapel Cemetery in Albia, with Pastor John Sowers officiating and military honors provided by the American Legion of Albia, Lovilia, and Melrose.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation of your choice in his memory.
