Richard "Dick" A. Pilchard Obituary (1928 - 2019)

Richard "Dick" A. Pilchard, 90 of Normal, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Cremation rites will be accorded. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of his wife Juanita. Beck Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements. Dick was born October 18, 1928 in Farmer City, Illinois to Leslie and Ruth Lohmeyer Pilchard. He married Juanita Taylor (nurse, teacher, and small business owner) on July 15, 1950 in Champaign, Illinois. He loved her more than anything. She preceded him in death on June 18, 2007. Dick is survived by his children; Greg (Betty) Pilchard, Bloomington; and Joy (Leon Fivecoat) Deem, Pekin, Illinois. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Travis (Melissa) Pilchard, Tyler Pilchard, Trent Pilchard, and Richard (Gaby Puente) Deem along with 6 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister, and a daughter, Gail Lynn Pilchard. Dick received his Bachelor's in Animal Science from the University of Illinois. He worked for Northern Illinois Breeding Co-op creating advertising and in field work and served on the Woodstock IL School Board. He later operated a dairy farm in the Farmer City area where he ran one of the earliest A.I. breeding schools. Dick had a deep love for nature and learning about the world around him which he encouraged in others. He enjoyed reading, creative writing, birdwatching, sports (Cubs, Bears, Bulls), and always had a witty joke or interesting story to share. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends but will live on through his influence and in their memories.