Richard Don Higdem Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Obituary Richard Don Higdem died on September 15th, 2020 from complications of Agent Orange exposure. Richard was born to Melvin and Lara Higdem in Fosston, MN on August 31st, 1945. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Gene and Roger. He is survived by his wife of 48 years Mai T Higdem (Yen) who resides in Salinas, California, and nieces and nephews: Dane (Stephanie) Higdem of Kimberly, Idaho, Brian (Jann) Higdem, Diane Higdem, and Robert (Lynn) Higdem all of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Richard was a career Army veteran spanning three decades, retiring as Sergeant Major. During his distinguished career he held the posts of Garrison Sergeant Major of Fort Ord, Sergeant Major of the Presidio DLIFLC, and held the office of Senior Enlisted of Saudi Arabia where all enlisted personnel of all Armed Forces reported to him. Richard received many decorations and citations. The highest honors awarded to Richard are Legion of Merit with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with 2nd Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal with 4th Oak Leaf Cluster and Army Achievement Medal with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster. Richard was also proud to have been awarded jump wings early in his career; he always remarked that earning this award came with the most pain. Richard was especially proud of his soldiers and the exceptional people he had the honor of working with throughout his career. During retirement Richard enjoyed working events at the Laguna Seca Raceway, spending time at the Kimberly mine in Idaho and continued his lifelong love of music of all genres. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends that his life touched. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard Don Higdem, please visit our floral store.

Richard Don Higdem

August 31, 1945 - September 15, 2020