A Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at 1:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home. Reception will follow at the funeral home. Graveside services will be held on Friday, February 10, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Green Mount Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Rick was born on June 5, 1949 in Champaigne-Urbana, IL the son of Richard Wayne Sr. and Mary Louise (Whitnel) Sterling who preceded him in death. He was married on November 25, 1989 in St. Louis, MO to Rebecca “Becky” Lee who survives of the home.
Rick graduated from Belleville Township High in IL and completed a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from The University of Missouri. He loved politics and immediately after graduation had an opportunity to work for Gov. Kit Bond in his 2nd term. This opportunity fueled a lifelong interest in public policy at all levels. He passionately believed that good government could work for the people. He spent 12 years working for the State of Missouri to that end. During his time in government, he pursued his other passion – racing cars on the Cart Circuit in several states. After leaving government and racing he turned to residential construction and was well known for quality home construction. When he retired from building, he worked in contractor sales and building materials at Menards.
Rick was a kind, generous and loving man. He was passionate about his family. Rick was especially close to his children and grandchildren; they brought great joy & pride to him. He loved his creatures and over the years several German Shepherds, one Whippet and many cats were nurtured by his love & care. His was a avid sports fan and especially loved Mizzou Sports and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Survivors include: two children, Jerry Styles of Brewton, AL and Valerie Weiss (Patrick) of Atlanta, GA; eight grandchildren, Drew Styles (Stephanie), Parker Styles, Jacob Giltz, Hunter Hardin, Emma Styles, Wyatt Weiss, Gracie Styles and Olivia Weiss; and two great grandchildren, Elijah Pauley and Elliott Styles; one sister, Mary Sterling Wiener of Sarasota, FL; and one aunt, Elizabeth Whitnel Reichert of Belleville, IL. Rick is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Second Chance 24687 MO-179, Boonville, MO 65233.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18