s the competitive pricing advantages which larger and nationwide businesses enjoyed. The RJO is still the largest buying group for independent retail jewelers in the United States, celebrating its 50th year in 2016. Dick traveled the world establishing direct diamond buying relationships from the source. These contacts reached from Antwerp, Belgium to the Kimberly Mines of Africa. He and Kathy also traveled to Asia and Europe to gain additional insights into the industry. They expanded to five Morel Jewelry stores in Mason City, Minneapolis, and Winona MN. Dick was in demand as a speaker across the nation and at national conventions for the jewelry industry. He was a Vice President of the Retail Jewelers of America. Locally, he was a member of the Toastmasters, Masonic Lodge, and Kiwanis where he served a term as Lt. Gov. As a member of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce he was active in promoting the Southbridge Mall. He was a previous owner of the Frank Lloyd Wright Hotel in Mason City. Survived by sons, Richard (Kathy) Morel Jr., Kraig, daughter Dawn (Mark) Bruggeman, 13 grandchildren: Kara (Blake Petersen), Rachel (James) Duff, Bridget Morel, Dana & Jake Morel, Nick, Kris & Zach (Amanda) Buss, Caroline (Matt) Bennett, Natalie Morel, Meghan (Ryan) &Kathryn Bruggeman; 14 great-grandchildren;; Brothers Edmond, Rockford, IL, James (Lynne) DeKalb, IL, Gerald (Meg) Western Springs, IL, Sisters Roberta (James) Satterlee, Lee Ill, and Laurine LaMar, Tucson, AZ, with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by Kathryn Morel, son Bradley Morel, daughter Diane Morel, parents Frederic and Helen Morel. Dick lived life with high energy, full of quick wit, laughter and on his terms. The family wishes to extend their deepest thanks for the excellent loving care at the IOOF Home. Their compassion, devotion and support to our father has lessened this difficult journey through dementia. To read the full obituary, please click here: http://www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Richard-Dick-Jule-Morel?obId=2707352#/obituaryInfo