N Richard Lockmiller Obituary (1929 - 2012)

DECATUR Noel Richard Lockmiller, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother, passed away on December 14th, 2012. Services to celebrate Richard's life will be begin with visitation on Wednesday morning at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Family Church (2400 S. Franklin St., Decatur, IL 62521), followed by mass at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation (P.O. Box 633, Decatur, IL 62525) or the Decatur Public Library (130 N. Franklin Street, Decatur, IL 62521). Dawson & Wikoff Funeral Home, West Wood Street is assisting the family with services. Richard was born on April 11th, 1929 , the son of Raymond and Elda Lockmiller and grew up in Decatur. He married his high school sweetheart, Norma on July 10th , 1949 and spent a lifetime of happiness with her. He graduated from Decatur High School and Millikin University, where he majored in Biochemistry. Professionally, Richard was known by many for his work at A.E. Staley Manufacturing and LNR Enterprises. He was also known by many for his time spent as president of the Library Board and DPL foundation, a member and past president of the American Heart Association, a member and past president of the Salvation Army board, a member of S.C.O.R.E., a member of Golden K, a member of the Sullivan Little Theater board, and was actively involved in fundraising for the Boy Scouts of America. He was well known for his efforts with the Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation, spearheading the drive for a new animal shelter in Decatur. Richard leaves behind many loved ones who will miss him greatly, including his wife of 63 years, Norma; his son Rick and wife Lisa (of Fair Oaks, CA), his son Mark and wife Cindy (of Mt. Zion, IL), his son John and wife Nancy (of Champaign, IL), his son Paul and wife Judy (of Fairfield, CT); his brother Marvin and wife June (of Monticello, IL), his brother David (of San Francisco, CA), and his sister Sandy Cole and husband Bart (of Decatur, IL); his grandchildren, including Tess Miller and husband Eric, Emily, Amy, Andrew, Sarah, Emma, Annie, and Lucy; his step-grandchildren Dreu Larson and wife Carly, D.J., and Dorie Holeman; his step-great grandchildren Tryston, Taylor and Tyler Larson; and many nephews and nieces. Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Elda, his infant sister Wanda, and his beloved daughter, Jennifer. Richard's infectious laugh and noble spirit will be dearly missed. He was generous and loving to everyone in his life. He is a great example of a man who truly enjoyed life to the fullest. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.dawson-wikoff.com. Obituary written by family members.