Richard "Dick" Felice Honored By The Masonry Institute of Iowa

Words: Jeff Buczkiewicz

On Tuesday March 22, 2022, the Masonry Institute of Iowa honored member Richard “Dick” Felice on his retirement. They renamed their pre-apprentice scholarship after Dick, now known as the “Richard C Felice BAC3 IA Pre-Apprentice Scholarship.” MII's Foundation awards the pre-apprentices a scholarship during their coursework. Dick Felice was honored for his 62 years of service to the masonry industry. He was one of the founding fathers of the Masonry Institute of Iowa, back to 1978 when it was incorporated, according to Jenny Irlmeier, MII Executive Director.  

Mr. Felice has been very active with the Mason Contractors Association of America as well.  He has been a mentor to so many mason contractors throughout the years, and has served in the leadership of the organization. He was Chairman of the MCAA from 1990-1992. Mr. Felice is arguably one of the most well-respected contractors in our industry and has built a long history of top-notch quality for a fair price. The MCAA also honored Mr. Felice that evening, and presented him a plaque honoring his retirement. 

The Enduring Power of Structural Masonry
July 2025

Masonry has been holding its ground for millennia — literally. And thanks to the simple brilliance of arching action, it continues to do so with strength, style, and surprising efficiency. In an era of advanced modeling and fast-moving schedules, one time

Outreach Outlook: Momentum in Motion
July 2025

As we move into the heart of summer, the masonry industry continues to thrive—fueled by innovation, partnership, and a growing commitment to excellence in education and workforce advancement. June has been a remarkable month, marked by events that not onl

Building More: Slow, Fast, or Consistent. What is Tempo?
July 2025

It was a drizzly midweek day when I rolled up to the project we were working on just outside of town. The foreman paced the scaffolding, rain hood half-zipped, barking at two laborers who were sprinting bricks like they were late for a flight. Forty feet

Marvelous Masonry: Belém Tower
July 2025

The Belém Tower in Lisbon, Portugal, stands as a testament to stone construction's enduring artistry and technical prowess. Erected between 1514 and 1519, this iconic structure served as a defensive bastion at the mouth of the Tagus River and as a ceremon