Richard A. Read

Richard A. Read, 80, of Rockton, IL, passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born on August 18, 1944, in Rockford, Illinois to Arthur and Helen (Larson) Read. He grew up in Elizabeth, IL on a dairy farm where he was heavily involved in 4-H. Richard married his wife, Marilynn Malloy, at the Church by The Side of the Road on July 29, 1972. They were married for 52 years.  Richard graduated high school in Elizabeth, IL in 1962, then went on to attend the University of Wyoming where he was a drummer in the marching band.

Being an active part in his daughter’s lives through sports was one of his biggest passions. He was coach, catcher, rebounder and overall cheerleader for his daughters. Richard was a member of the Venetian Club and The National Rifle Association. A tortured yet proud Chicago Bears and White Sox fan meant he was equipped to survive those early years of girls' sports with patience and positivity. The true definition of a country boy, Richard was an avid fisherman and loved the solace of the outdoors. He adored his three golden retrievers, Brandy, Bridgette and Honey Bear and his two grand-dogs, Bailey and Emma. Lovingly nicknamed by his family as the Gadget-man, Richard became known for his unique gift-giving abilities. And foodie at heart, he had a passion for meals and was always called upon to be the chef for any special event. He had an eye for the finer things. A devoted husband, a loving father and an adoring grandfather will be how he is remembered. 

Survivors include his spouse, Marilynn Read; children, Heather (Matt) Janke and Kristi Read; grandchildren, Natalie Janke, Nolan Janke, Elena Janke, Landon Janke; sisters, Patricia Luck, Jean (Blaine) Watts; brothers, Michael (Marcy) Read and Rusty (Kim) Read; many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Helen Read; nephew, James Watts; niece, Debbi Bates, brother-in-law, Fred Luck.

Funeral service will be at 2:00pm with a visitation from 1:00pm until the service on Saturday, October 12, 2024, in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory-Roscoe Chapel, 11342 Main Street, Roscoe, IL 61073.  In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Elizabeth Historical Society, P.O. Box 371, Elizabeth, IL 61028 or the Loves Park VFW,  2018 Windsor Rd, Loves Park, IL 61111.

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