Melvin "Mel" F. Rich

SPRINGFIELD, IL- Melvin “Mel” F. Rich, 85, of Springfield, went home to his Heavenly Father November 25, 2017 at home with his family by his side. He was born November 6, 1932 in Morrisonville, IL to Harry Fred and Elsie Velma (Bradford) Rich, the youngest of four children. On December 23, 1969, he married the love of his life, Judy Edwards.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Judy; three daughters, Sheri (Doug) Iwanicki of Springfield, Nancianne (Mark) Knipfer of Lake Forest and Diane Rich of St. Peters, Mo; four grandchildren Julia Knipfer, Abby Knipfer, Madison Iwanicki and Gabe Iwanicki; brother-in-law Frank (Cinda) Edwards; nephews Alex Edwards and Stan (Doris) Rich, great-nephew Brad (Jenny) Rich all of Springfield and several out of town nieces, nephews, and cousins. He also leaves behind his loving four-legged companion Lucie.

Mel was preceded in passing by his parents, brother, Wayne Rich, and sisters, Eileen Dudenhoffer and Betty Morrissey.

After graduating from Morrisonville High School in 1950, Mel served in the United States Air Force from 1951-1955 during the Korean War. He went to work for Fiat-Allis for the next 30 years. He traveled worldwide in 17 countries and the 50 states where he consulted, taught and designed buildings. He worked for Igor for the next 9 years as the Southern District Manager. Then he moved to his dream job as a grounds keeper at Lincoln Greens from 1997-2011, he was back on a tractor!

Mel’s passion was his family. He loved boating, golfing and dancing with Judy. They met on the dance floor New Year’s Eve of 1968. He took great pride in teaching his daughters, grandchildren and many others the “art” of water skiing. Mel enjoyed nothing more than a good party!

Mel was a member of the Elks Lodge 158 and a former member of Springfield Motor Boat Club. He was a member of West Side Christian Church and loved the TNT Class.

Graveside Service: 10 AM, Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at Camp Butler National Cemetery with Pastor Gary Winkleman officiating. Sangamon County Inter Veterans burial detail and the United States Air Force will conduct military honors.

Celebration of Life: The family will host a celebration of life at 11:30 AM, Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at West Side Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children-St. Louis, or Lake Springfield Christian Assembly.