Richard Alexander

Creal Springs-Richard Alexander, 84, passed away on Monday, November 11, 2019 at his home.

Richard was born on July 24, 1935 in Chicago to Paul and Clara Alexander.  He married Patricia Falconberry on March 14, 1957.  She preceded him in death on March 3, 2017.

Richard (or Beeps as his grand-daughter and great-grand-daughter affectionately called him) was an incredible human being. There was nothing he would not do for or give to anybody. He and his late wife Patricia were greatly involved in every community they lived in. They loved attending ball games, concerts, plays, and generally any event that put them around their friends and family.

Richard wore many hats throughout his life. Most notable was during his time at the University of Illinois and Urbana-Champaign, where he retired as Director of Operations and Maintenance. He was commissioned by the Monee Police Department from 1975-1985 and Captain of the Monee Fire Department where both he and his wife were EMTs from 1967-1990. He also served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960 as a radar technician; his rank at discharge was E-5 Specialist.

He was an avid lover of "big toys"- cars, planes, boats; anything that could move and move fast. He loved travelling and always sought a new adventure. He constantly read and made a point to acquire new knowledge. He greatly appreciated all of the fine arts; he contributed to and supported them in any way he could. He was involved in many restorative projects throughout his career with the University and even in retirement; he and his wife volunteered at Allerton Park in Monticello- she as a gardener and he as park security.

Richard was simply a person who loved life. He wanted to enjoy every moment and wanted to be sure those around him were enjoying life and happy too. His love knew no bounds. His absence will be greatly felt by many people.

Survivors include:

Daughters-Randy Alexander and Leslie Alexander

Granddaughter-Jessica Volkman

Great granddaughter-Penelope Volkman

Brother-Paul and Lorraine Alexander

Nephew-Patrick Alexander

Niece-Sharon Alexander

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife and son in law, Michael Vorreyer.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2019 at 12:00pm at Community of Christ Church in Tunnel Hill.  Visitation will be on Friday, November 22, 2019 from 4pm-7pm at Blue Funeral Home in Goreville.

For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit bluefuneralhome.com