Ricky A. Newgard

Ricky A. Newgard, 66, passed away at home with his loving wife and best friends by his side on September 5, 2022.  He was born in Rockford, IL on July 14, 1956.  He married his high school sweetheart, Joyce (Cuplin) Newgard on December 7, 1974 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Rockford.  Ricky graduated from Auburn High School and received his Doctor of Motors degree from Denver Automotive and Diesel.  Ricky was a proud member of the Midwest Operating Engineers Local #150 Union and worked for McAllister Equipment Company as a heavy equipment mechanic.  Thankfully, he was able to retire in 2011 when he was 55 years old.

Ricky's nickname was Mr. Chemlawn, and he enjoyed having his yard looking like a park.  Ricky was a great mechanic, and could fix anything.  He was a true Doctor of Motors.

Even though Ricky and Joyce weren't able to have children, he loved the children of his family and friends as if they were his own.  He spoke his mind and was honest to a fault, and he told you like it was.  Ricky was rough around the edges with a very kind heart and would do anything for you in a heartbeat.  Whatever you needed, he would be there and make sure he could help you.  Ricky was quick-witted and a real smartass.

Ricky is survived by his wife, Joyce; his beloved brother, Robin and wife, Dawn; numerous nieces and nephews; extended family; and best friends, Jim and Sherry Copas and family and Ron and Linda Tallacksen and family.  He is predeceased by his father, Tilman Newgard.

Special thanks to Debbie McCrillis, OSF Hospice, nurse Rebekka, and to Carol for making this possible.  A huge Thank You to Linda for her support for being there during the last 24 hours of Ricky's journey to gain his angel wings.  And to Sherry, Ricky waited to pass until he heard her voice and felt her presence.  

Per Ricky's request, there will be no service.

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