Howard B. Richards

Howard B. Richards, age 95 of rural Pittsfield, IL passed away Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Howard was born August 24, 1927, in Pleasant Hill, IL to John and Hallie Caylor Richards. He married Zelma Ann Windmiller on December 21, 1946, at the United Methodist Church and she preceded him in death May 8, 2014.

After graduating from Pittsfield High School, Howard went to work for Pan Handle for a short time, owned and operated the DX filling station and Firestone Tire dealership; he then began his lifetime career as a farmer. His son, Mark and son-in-law, Wally joined him on the family farm in the early 70’s. Howard was a hardworking, progressive farmer always looking ahead and planning. He was an ace repairman, and loved working in his shop repairing, building, or improving whatever needed it. There was little he could not fix or come up with a solution for and was always willing and eager to lend a helping hand in his family’s many projects. The wellbeing and security of his family and his farm were always his #1 priority.

Howard and Zelma were charter members of OOCC where he enjoyed golfing with friends and family and were members of the same couple’s bridge club for over 50 years. He enjoyed boating, teaching his kids, grandkids and many others to ski and “saucer”, passing on the love of the sport, and hunting in his early years. After stepping back from the farming operation, he took up a little fishing and also helped Zelma and her sister, Vivian with a wood crafting hobby. Howard was an avid fan and supporter of his grandchildren and great grandchildren and enjoyed following their many and varied events, activities, and accomplishments throughout his lifetime. They fondly referred to him at “Grumps”.

Howard is survived by his son, Mark (Sherry) Richards; daughter, Joan Richards Groom; six grandchildren, Kurt Bloyd, Dawn Richards, Doug (Alicia) Richards, Angie (Doug) McDonald, Kate (Brian) Murphy and Ann (Eric) Murphy; fifteen great grandchildren, Madison Murphy, Brianna (John) McCutchan, Hannah Hayden, Grace Murphy, Gwyneth Murphy, Jess Hayden, Carly Murphy, Josie Murphy, Finn Murphy, Clint Bloyd, Olivia Bloyd, Abigail Null, Michael Null, Eliza Richards, and Ruby Richards; one great great grandchild, Nova Murphy; and brother, Clarence Richards of Pittsifeld, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Hallie Richards; his loving wife of 66 years, Zelma Richards; brother, Wayne; sister in infancy; and son-in-law, Wally Groom.

Graveside service will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, August 4, 2023, at Pittsfield West Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to be made to West Cemetery or Pittsfield FFA. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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