Richard Allen Shelton

Richard Allen Shelton, 66, of Fargo, ND, formerly of Fergus Falls, MN, died Thursday, September 18, 2014 in his home.

Richard was born on September 9, 1948 in Fergus Falls, MN to Robert “Bob” and Blanche (Fick) Shelton. He graduated from Fergus Falls High School in 1967. He then went to Wahpeton State School of Science and received his Associate in Arts Degree in 1969 for Auto Mechanic/Parts Training. In 1969, Richard moved to Fargo, ND where he spent most of his career working for several car dealerships, the main one being Gateway Chevrolet. He worked in the parts department there and went on to be a warranty claims administrator.

Richard enjoyed spending time at his parents’ cabin on Jewett Lake in his younger years. He had a passion for photography, especially of nature. He loved the spring flowers and the fall foliage. He also took wedding and graduation pictures. Richard had been a member of the Fargo-Moorhead Camera Club for many years. He liked camping and traveling in general. He also enjoyed computers and technology. He was a member of the F/M Macintosh Computer Club and was one of their most knowledgeable members, being a go-to person for Mac problems. He was always up to pace on the latest and greatest technological advances and adapted to new technology very quickly. Richard also enjoyed cooking and swapping recipes. His family looked forward to his scalloped corn for the holidays. Richard also enjoyed gardening, and loved going to the Fick cousin reunions to visit with family.

Richard was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous for nearly 30 years where he touched the lives of many. He cherished the program, his sobriety and the many close friends he made through AA.

Richard is survived by his brother, Gary (Joyce) Shelton, Fergus Falls, MN; nieces, Trish (Brian)Thibodeau, Montrose, MN; Tiffany Shelton, Fergus Falls, MN; nephews, Shannon Brist; and Jason (Tara) Brist, all of Fergus Falls; 12 great-nieces and nephews; a great- great niece and nephew; his cats, Mushu and Bootsy that he considered his children; and his special friend Sharold Hipfner.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Blanche Shelton; brother, Henry; and sister, Valdine.