Richard “Dick” Colson, 89, of Belford, passed away peacefully March 12, 2026, in Tinton Falls. Born Dec. 10, 1936, at home in Belford, he was the son of the late Albert and Nina (Johnson) Colson. Dick was a lifelong resident of Belford, a community he loved.
Dick owned and operated Colson Septic Tank Service, a sewer and septic company well known throughout the area for its reliability and quality workmanship. He also worked for the Thomas Procter Company in Long Branch. Later in life, he became a proud dockbuilder, working with Trevcon Construction and as a longtime member of Dockbuilders Local Union 1456 of New York, a trade and brotherhood he valued greatly.
Dick and his beloved wife, Isobel (née Lockwood), built a life centered around family, hard work and community. Together they raised four children and enjoyed many years traveling and spending time with family. Dick especially loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and gathering with friends at the hunting cabin in upstate New York. He and Isobel enjoyed traveling together, including memorable trips to Norway and Alaska. Closer to home, they especially loved spending time together visiting Sandy Hook.
Dick was deeply committed to serving his community. He was a life member of the Belford Engine Fire Company and served as captain in 1971, proudly volunteering as a firefighter for many years. He was also a lifelong member of Belford United Methodist Church, where his faith guided his commitment to helping others. Dick volunteered with Noreg Lodge #3-466, McCormack’s Farm in Middletown, and The Barn for the Poorest of the Poor, where he helped transport food donations and lend a hand wherever it was needed.
Dick was an avid deer and pheasant hunter and hosted many trips to upstate New York. His devoted bird dog, Scout, was a constant companion on those hunts and throughout the years. Dick also enjoyed long walks through New Monmouth and his hometown of Belford, often stopping along the way to talk with neighbors and friends.
Those who knew Dick will remember his strong work ethic, his kindness and his willingness to help anyone who needed it. He was known for being friendly, easygoing, generous and always ready to lend a helping hand.
Dick was predeceased by his beloved wife, Isobel; his daughter, Kathryn “Kathy” Walzer; his parents, Albert and Nina Colson; and his siblings, Robert Colson, Leonard Colson, Norman Colson, Gloria Colson, Helen Colson, Doris Willis, Alvin Colson, Albert Colson and Marion Colson.
He is survived by his children, Sharon Trautvetter of California, Richard “Rick” (Charlotte) Colson of Aberdeen, Thomas Walzer of Edmonds, Washington, and Daniel “Dan” (Patricia) Colson of Middletown, along with many extended family members and friends.
He was a proud grandfather to Scott Colson of Middletown, Andrea (Rich) Rivera of Keansburg, Benjamin Walzer and Jonathan (Kysa) Walzer of Washington, and a loving great-grandfather to Jack and Satine Colson and Wesley Walzer.
Richard “Dick” Colson lived a life defined by love, service, hard work and dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the kindness, generosity, and example he shared with so many will live on.
A celebration of Dick’s life will be held at a later date and will be announced to family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick’s memory to the Belford Engine Fire Company, P.O. Box 87, Belford, NJ 07718, a place where he proudly served his community for many years.
The article originally appeared in the March 12 – 18, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
