Rich Kennedy, 76, of Washington, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

He was born in Quincy, IL on December 26, 1947 to Richard W. and Darlene Kennedy.

Surviving are his two children, Troy (Aimee) Kennedy of Midlothian, TX, and Darla (Walt) Deemie of Dundee, FL; six grandchildren, Christina, James, Stephanie, Erika, Allyson, and Lauryn; seven great-grandchildren, Kaileigh, Jayden, Maliha, Maiya, Tanner, Kam and Makendra.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Darlene Kennedy; and his sister, Martha Parkhouse.

Rich worked 35 years as a pipefitter with Steamfitters Local 353, retiring on April 1st, 2009.

He enjoyed spending time with his buddies, fishing, and he loved riding motorcycles with his cousin Kenny.  He also enjoyed seeing his children when they would come for visits.  He always wanted to go to the casino, he loved gambling.

Rich also served in the Army during and wanted to be with the 101st Airborne so bad because that's what his father did. Because of his father, he was chosen as what they call a legacy choice and he was very proud of that.  He served one year and had to return home due to malaria and Agent Orange.

Cremation has been accorded.  A visitation will be from 5 to 7pm on Tuesday, Oct. 29th at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.  Graveside services with military honors will be at Hillcrest Memory Gardens in Morton at 11am Wednesday, Oct. 30th.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.