Alan B. Rickey

Alan Burdell Rickey

Lacon- Alan B. Rickey, 71 of Lacon,
formerly of Henry, died on July 16, 2013 at his
residence.

He was born on April 22, 1942 in
Henry to Edwin and Hollace (Child) Rickey. He married Cinda Scales
in 1970 but they were later divorced. She
survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Gerald
of Wisconsin; Edwin (Jeannie) of Texas and their sons, William and
Matthew; one sister, Edwayna (Mark) Tawney of Ohio; numerous
nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was a 1960 graduate of Henry
High School and a 1971 graduate of Illinois State University, after
attending both Canton Junior College and Bradley University.

In his early years, Alan worked for
several Henry merchants as well as the US Post Office. After
completing his Army tour (1964-1966), he worked for Caterpillar
Inc., Armour Packing, and Pabst Brewing. He then completed college
and returned to Caterpillar, Inc. He retired from Caterpillar in
2002 after 31 years of service, specializing in mainframe Data
Processing. During his tenure at Caterpillar, Alan received many
awards for his work ethics, achievements, people skills and
excellence.

In 1976, Alan, his wife, and
several close friends introduced T-Ball to Henry at St. Mary's Ball
Park. The program was totally funded by Alan and aided by many
generous donations from the community. The program was so popular
the following year the Henry Summer Recreation organization
convinced Alan to become a Board Member and integrate T-ball into
their system, with Alan being the director of it. Alan remained in
this capacity for several years.

He was a member of the American
Legion in Henry, Illinois Sheriffs Association and AARP.

Alan's biggest enjoyment was
spending time with his family and friends, especially his children
and two grandsons.

The following is a passage that
Alan extracted from his father's obituary.

There is an open gate at the end of
the road, through which each must go alone. And therein a light we
cannot see, Our Father claims His own. Beyond the gate, our loved
one finds happiness and rest. In addition, there is comfort in the
thought that a loving God knows best.

Graveside services will be held at
11 a.m. Thursday, July 25, 2013 at the Henry Cemetery. Cremation
will be accorded. There will be a gathering at the American Legion
in Henry following the services. Lenz Memorial Home in Lacon is
assisting the family with their arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made
to the Henry American Legion.  Online condolences may be sent
to the family at lenzmemorialhome.com.

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