Richard Leslie Lair

Richard Leslie Lair was born on November 23, 1933, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He grew up in Edina, where he met his wife Elizabeth Chamberlain in the 6^th grade. He could still tell you what she was wearing the day that they met.  

Not long after graduating high school Dick and Liz eloped. The couple lived in a rented cottage on Groveland Assembly Grounds at Lake Minnetonka. They worked and commuted to the University of Minnesota until Dick joined the U.S. Army. After the Army the couple continued their studies at the University of Minnesota, and then Dick attended business school and became a court reporter. 

He had some wonderful job opportunities that took the family to Pago Pago, American Samoa; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Eugene, Oregon, where they finished raising their family and lived for a total of 46 years before relocating to Cottage Grove, Minnesota. 

Dick was devoted to his family. He was happiest when he was with his darling wife and supporting her endeavors in the garden, which eventually led to annual garden tours in Eugene, as well as the garden being featured in several magazines, books and newspapers. 

Dick loved the Lord and was a beautiful example of how to live by faith, and in times of physical afflictions, to suffer well, focusing on the promise and hope of heaven. He was kind and compassionate, generous, funny and wise. His personality tickled his friends and co-workers. He was an outstanding person, respected and loved by everyone. His life was full of grace.  

He was preceded in death by his brother Felt, and his son Gregory. He is survived by his wife of 70 years Elizabeth, son Jeffrey, daughter Pamela (Joseph) Seidel, five grandchildren, and quite a few great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  

A private memorial service was held on June 20^th.