Richard "Rick" Orren Laster

Richard “Rick” Laster, 71, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, at HCA Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte, Florida, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on December 26, 1953, in Memphis, Tennessee, Rick was the son of George Monroe and Edda Janette (Johnson) Laster. On December 23, 1983, he married the love of his life, Debbie (Boulch) Laster, and together they shared over 41 years of marriage built on love, faith, and devotion.

Rick was a longtime member of Anna Heights Baptist Church, where his heart for service and community left a lasting mark. He served faithfully on many committees, including the planning and construction of the church’s new sanctuary and fellowship hall. For years, he was active as a youth Sunday School teacher and leader, helping guide and mentor countless young people through Youth Activities and Vacation Bible School. His faith was not just something he spoke about; it was something he lived every day through his generosity, humor, and willingness to help anyone in need.

A 1971 graduate of Wolf Lake High School, Rick began his career farming alongside his father in Wolf Lake, Illinois. He later transitioned into construction, working with his brother Kenny at Laster Construction, where his craftsmanship and work ethic became well-known. In 1992, Rick began a new chapter with the Illinois Department of Corrections, serving as a Maintenance Craftsman at Tamms Correctional Center until his retirement in 2012. Retirement did not slow him down. Rick quickly returned to his passion for building, working as a Construction Superintendent with Gaylon Cruise Construction and Baysinger Architect.

In 2023, Rick and Debbie relocated to Venice, Florida, to be closer to family. He continued doing what he loved, most recently serving as Construction Superintendent for the new Ocean Prime Restaurant in Sarasota, Florida, a project he took great pride in completing.

Rick’s greatest joys came from life’s simple and beautiful moments. He loved walking the beach with his grandkids, searching for shark teeth to share with them as little treasures from their adventures together. On weekends, he took pride in making his famous fresh blueberry pancakes, filling the house with the smell of breakfast and the sound of laughter. He also enjoyed boating, bike riding, snow skiing, hiking, and watching his grandkids’ sporting events, always cheering with pride and encouragement. Whether at the beach, in the kitchen, or in the stands, Rick was happiest when surrounded by his family. He found peace in the outdoors and purpose in the people he loved most. His presence made every gathering brighter and every challenge easier to face.

He is survived by his loving wife Debra; sons Jason (Charity) of Paducah, KY, and Creighton (Madison) of Venice, FL; daughter Danielle (Brad) of Anna, IL; brothers Sammy (Suzanne), Kenny, and Donny (Sharon); sister Janice Derossett (Gary); and eleven beloved grandchildren: Alex McDaniel, Ethan Laster, Dalton Cobb, Mason Laster, Brianna Dodd, River Laster, Dylan Dodd, Blake Laster, Logan Laster, Brynlee Dodd, and Wyatt Laster. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends and classmates, including Bill Littrell, Dennis Lovell, Mike McLane, Bruce Mosby, and cousins Conley Laster and Ronnie Burford, whom all remained close throughout his life.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws; brother Tommy; sister Bonita; brothers- and sisters-in-law Clifford and Barbara, Gary Boulch, and Marvin Wilson; along with nephews Anthony and Allen Boulch and Matthew Tebbe.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Anna, Illinois, with details to be announced at a later date.

Rick’s life was defined by hard work, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness will continue to echo in the lives of all who knew him. Though he has left this world, the foundation he built, both in family and in faith, will stand strong for generations to come.