Richard Dean "Rick" Link

Richard D. Rick Link, 57, of rural Biggsville, Illinois died at 9:04 a.m., Sunday, November 2, 2014 at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded my his family. He was born January 18, 1957 in Burlington, Iowa, the son of Charles L. and Polly Masters Link. On September 22, 1978, he married Peggy Pulse. Rick and Peggy had one daughter, Ashley. On October 12, 1991, he married Patricia Bixenman, and together they had one daughter, Cassidy.

Rick was a 1975 graduate of Southern High School in Stronghurst. He was a lifelong farmer in the Biggsville and Media areas with his father, mother, and brother. He enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family and friends. He was a member of the Henderson County Farm Bureau.

Rick loved farming with his mother and brother. He had a small herd of cattle that he enjoyed tending.

With great determination, Rick was able to climb into his combine this fall and pick corn; he got the job done.

His daughters and granddaughters were his greatest joy, and spending time with them brought him much happiness. His family was so important to him throughout his battle with cancer. They provided strength, support, and love.

Survivors include two daughters, Ashley (Brad Utter) Link of Biggsville, IL, Cassidy (Cody) Minton of Burlington, IA, one step-daughter, Melissa Wood of Burlington, his mother, Polly Link of Media, one granddaughter, Carlee Link, two step-granddaughters, Dakarai and Ziah Bell, one sister, Vicki (John) Keane of Media, IL, one brother, Chuck (Donna) Link of Stronghurst, and his significant other, Stacey Schramm of Stronghurst, IL. Also surviving are six nieces and nephews, Jenny (Mike) Wood, Robyn (Phil) Long, Kristina (Joe) Hathaway, Lisa (and fianc Travis) Keane-Brown, Laura (Markus) Bruce, Chuck (Hanna) Keane and twelve great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

The funeral service for Rick will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday November 7, 2014 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst with Dan Ashton officiating. Burial will follow in the Walnut Grove Cemetery, near Media. Friends may call after 2:00 p.m., Thursday at Banks & Beals, where the family will be present from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established, and will be designated later. Following the services, the family requests you to join them to celebrate Ricks life at the St. Patricks Community Center in Raritan, Illinois.