Richard L. Rick Ford, 59, of rural Carman, IL, died on October 1, 2014, at his home. He was born on September 13, 1955, in Burlington, Iowa, the son of Robert and Evelyn Howell Ford.

Rick grew up on the family farm. He graduated from Southern High School and Southeastern Community College. His enthusiasm for sports led him to be the manager for the SCC Blackhawks while a student, and he continued to support the team his entire life as a faithful season ticket holder who never missed a home game. Rick also supported high school athletics by running the clock at football and volleyball games.

Rick was a lifelong member of the Bethel Lutheran Church, Stronghurst, and served on the church council as chairman of the worship and music committee. He was a devoted participant of the Relay For Life of Henderson County, serving as planning committee member for many years.

Rick was a loving son, brother and uncle. He took care of his mother and father during their later years, and loved to attend family events and activities, especially for his nieces and nephews.

Survivors include three sisters, Kathy Vitali of Punta Gorda, Florida, Kris (Quentin) Peterson, of Stronghurst, Illinois, and Kelly Ford of Mahomet, Illinois; six nieces and nephews, Rob (Jody) Vitali of Charleston, South Carolina, Kristina (David) Sellards, of Chicago, Samantha Bundy, Springfield, Amanda (Jacob) Bielser, of Brookings, Oregon, Boone Peterson, Gladstone, Tucker Peterson, Stronghurst; and three great nieces, Olivia Vitali, and Dorothy and Mallory Bielser. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-in-law, Lou Vitali.

Friends may call as they desire from 2:00 until 5:00 p.m. Sunday at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Bethel Lutheran Church, Stronghurst. Visitation with the family, will precede the funeral at 10:00 a.m. at the church. Rev. Terry Muller will officiate; burial will be in the Carman Cemetery. Memorials have been established for Bethel Lutheran Church and Relay For Life.