Richard S Gard's Obituary
Richard S. Gard, 63, of Casey, IL passed away at 3:48 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2010 at University Hospital, Louisville, KY, the result of a motorcycle accident. He was born May 6, 1947 in Terre Haute, IN, the son of John J. Gard and Cecile Cribelar Gard. On October 5, 1968 he married Mary Gail Smith in Casey, IL. Survivors include his wife, Mary Gard of Casey, IL; brother, John F. Gard and wife Nancy of Casey, IL; sister, Barbara Perisho of Marshall, IL; sisters-in-law, Connie Gard of Casey, IL; Jean Gard of Toledo, IL; Brenda Henson and husband Doug of Bethany, IL; Linda Cown of Craig, CO; Barbara Van Sickle of Broomfield, CO; brother in law, Robert Smith of Tulsa, OK; many nephews and nieces and many great nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Robert E. Gard in 1981 and James H. Gard in 2008. Richard was a member of the Casey Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Trustee of Johnson Township and a well known member of the community for his willingness to share his talents to help others. He loved motorcycling and expressing his creativity through his woodworking and motorcycle designs. All animals and wildlife were greatly loved by Richard, and he had a special bond with his dog, Chowie. Known as "The Toymaker" he designed and created thousands of music boxes, most of which were donated for fund raisers for causes dear to his heart such as the Shriner's Hospital for Children, Heart Fund, American Cancer Society and numerous local benefits for residents of the community facing some need or hardship. His music boxes have been featured in several major woodworking magazines, newspapers and featured on PBS television. Years before his focus on woodworking, Richard designed and built many custom motorcycles and cars which were show winners and published in many magazines. He always said he "can fix anything but a broken heart or a hole in the sky." Richard never met a stranger and always took time to talk with anyone. Although semi-retired, he was still employed part time by J & K Mitchell Collision Center as a heavy collision specialist. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 23, 2010 at the Markwell Funeral Home with Rev. Ron Juenger and Rev. Ronnie Gross officiating. Burial will follow in the Mount Cemetery, south of Casey. Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday evening at the funeral home. Richard's wishes were that everyone dress casual. Richard has requested brand new teddy bears be brought to the funeral home to be donated to a children's hospital after the services. Memorial donations and contributions may be made to Casey Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 16 N. Central Ave., Casey, IL 62420 or to the donor's choice. Memorial tributes and condolences may be sent to the family at www.markwellfuneralhome.com. Markwell Funeral Home of Casey, IL is in charge of the arrangements. SERVICES Visitation Thursday, July 22, 2010 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Markwell Funeral Home 200 N Central Ave Casey, IL 62420 Service Friday, July 23, 2010 11:00 AM Markwell Funeral Home 200 N Central Ave Casey, IL 62420
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?