Richard Wakeford
Alhambra |
Richard “Rich” Wakeford, 76, died at 6:55 p.m. Thursday, June 19, 2014 at Rosewood Care Center in Alton. Born July 25, 1937 in St. Louis, MO, he was the son of Edison R. and Relpha R. (Harris) Wakeford. Mr. Wakeford retired in 1997 after over 45 years of service as a renowned self-employed painter/wall paper hanger as well as working for various other contractors. He was a founder and honorary member of the Alton Motorboat Club. On December 23, 1983 he married the former Dawn Witt. She survives. Also surviving are four daughters, Laura D. Read (John) of San Antonio, TX, Kelly L. Schwartz (Paul J.) of Jasper, IN, Michelle L. Dunham (Jim) of Alton, and Melodee S. Ruyle of Bethalto, two sons, Mark R. Wakeford (Ann Pier) of Lebanon, and William “Rusty” Ruyle (Mary) of Medora, 16 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, and a sister, Ruth Frakes (Ron) of Grand Blanc, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Betty Jean Wakeford and a granddaughter, Heidi S. Milner. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until time of memorial service at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 28, 2014 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Pastor Julie Gvillo and Chaplain Colonel John Read will speak. Burial will be private. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of one’s choice. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com
Gent Funeral Home
