Dick was born to Howard and Verlene (Ring) Rush on March 29, 1939, in Champaign. He was married to the love of his life, Virginia “Ginger” Allison, for nearly 50 years.
In the early 1950s, Dick became the March of Dimes poster child after contracting polio as a young teenager. He graduated from Urbana High School in 1957, and earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University. Dick later graduated from Illinois Bankers School and began his career as a banker first at Capitol Bank and then Town and Country Bank. Dick served as the Executive Vice President at People’s National Bank. He was ultimately recruited to serve as the Regional Manager for the Illinois Credit Union League until his retirement in 2000.
Dick had a wonderful life. He was a member of the Springfield community for 60 years and a Freemason for over 50 years with primary membership at the Clinton Lodge #19. He enjoyed boating, country-western music, and spending time with family. Friends and family remember him as loyal, smart, and kind.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Linda Rush and Anita Brown; and two brothers-in-law, Robert Allison and William Allison.
Dick is survived by his wife, Ginger; sister, Diana (Robert) Barger; sisters-in-law, Sharon Allison and Ursula Allison; and many nieces and nephews.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Burial will take place at a later date in Greenmount Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, followed by Masonic rites and a ceremony at 3:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Feline Ranch, Animal Protective League, Shriners Children’s Hospital, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Please visit https://www.butlerspringfield.com to offer your condolences.
