Bernard "Bernie" Gene Richards

Bernie was born Feb. 11, 1937 to Hannah Hendricks Richards and Cloyd Richards in Peoria, IL. He married Joyce Ericksen in Glen Ellyn, IL in 1960, with whom they had two children of whom he is very proud. Mark (Michele) Richards (CO) and Susan Richards Shipley (TX). Later in life, he had the unique and wonderful experience of meeting his “soul mate”, Teala Riddle Lavell. These 2 “soul mates” married in Nov. 2001 in NC and have had many great years together—visiting with friends & family, a variety of experiences that expanded their horizons, updating their homes, etc.; however, they were very content just doing nothing, as long as it was together.

Bernie obtained BS and MS degrees in Engineering from The University of Illinois and from Bradley U., respectively. He spent the bulk of his working career as an engineer and later as a manager in Engine Research at Caterpillar, Inc., retiring in 2000 after 40 years in the industry, 35 of them at Caterpillar. Although he very much enjoyed retirement, in 2005 he accepted an offer for a “part time, retirement job” to develop / manage a design cell at Caterpillar’s Engine Div. The “retirement job” lasted for 10 years. He was a member of The American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and assisted in organizing several technical conferences and authored / presented several technical papers, one of which in 1990 was awarded “Excellence in Oral Presentation”.

In his school days, he enjoyed participating in sports (football, basketball and softball), but during his high school days, he salvaged a few old “throw-away” golf clubs from a neighbor’s garbage can, with which he launched his passion for playing golf. He enjoys casual golf with friends, as well as the competition of playing numerous times in the Peoria City Men’s Golf Tournament. He has made it to the finals/semi-finals in his flight several times. Instead of riding in a golf cart, he continued to enjoy walking the courses, when appropriate, well into his early 80’s. He is a 20 year member of Arrowhead CC.

He was a member of 1st Presbyterian Church (Peoria) for many years and served as deacon and high school Sunday School teacher. He tries to “live” his conservative values (work ethic, thrift, live within means, integrity, humility, respect for others, delayed gratification, subtle humor, family) which were developed from his parents, as well as from growing up in the 1940’s and 50’s. His senior year high school yearbook characterized him as “he’s usually quiet and shy, but we know he is an all-around guy!” That’s probably been applicable for his entire life. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife (Teala), son (Mark), daughter (Susan), sister Jean (Rich) Clinch and grandchildren—Nicole (Graham), Lauren, Lindsay, Nathan, Logan, Sydney, Lina & Colton. He is very proud of all of them. He looks forward to seeing his family / friends again in the next life. (1 Thessalonians 4:13)

To be Bernie’s wife was a wonderful journey. Creating many beautiful memories together. Bernie was a wonderful person and caring husband. He always had time for his wife as he did for everyone else. Always looked for the good in everyone. We were very blessed to have our life together, “soul mates”, and will be together forever.

Everyone says they have the best Dad and Grandpa, but those slots have already been taken by ours. He always looks for the best in others and gives grace when needed and encouragement for a job well done. He even can see how something may not seem great…may actually be. He showers us with unconditional love at all times while listening without boundaries. He has the best gentle, quiet yet magical sense of humor and would love to sit and hear stories from his grandchildren and is such a force of goodness and acceptance for them and actually the world. He is generous with “I love you” even when not spoken and we will always carry his love for eternity. We love you Dad/Grandpa! God made the very best when you were born.

Throughout his life, Bernie constantly puts others first, but perhaps no one more so than his two children. He loved being a Dad and he was a fantastic parent. Every family has occasional drama, but he always had the gift to somehow make everything calm, cool, collected and loving. He was a steady anchor, offering solace and reassurance throughout the ups and downs of life. As his kids grew and life’s decisions arose, Bernie had insight and advice that was spot on. Life never totally goes the way anyone plans, but no matter the outcome, Bernie’s kids have always known he was proud of them and loved them for who they are.

Bernie's family has arranged a celebration of life service to take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at United Presbyterian Church in Peoria. Rev. Debra Avery will officiate. His celebration of life gathering will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, April 26, 2024 at his church. An additional celebration of life gathering will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday also at his church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate

Online condolences may be shared with Bernie's family at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com.