Richard Frank Demaree, 86, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at his home on Tuesday, August 28, 2018.
He was born June 14, 1932 in Granite City, the son of the late Spiro and Tresa (Seifert) Demaree. He married the love of his life, Darlene (Potts) Demaree on October 1, 1955 in Mt. Vernon and she survives. Richard attended Granite City High School and was a 1950 graduate. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served active duty in Guam, China and Korea until his honorable discharge in 1954.
He was a journeyman mechanic working for Union Electric, The Army Corp of Engineers and Union Starch. He retired after many years of service in the Facilities Management Department of Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville. He was a member, representative and officer of the IBEW Local 399. Richard was very proud to serve his country in the United States Navy Reserve and retired at the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid duck hunter. He will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends. In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Stephen Michael Demaree of Granite City and Richard G. and Carolyn Demaree of Granite City; three grandchildren and spouses, Caitlin and William Dyer, Sarah and Bruce Cuffee and Alex Demaree; a great granddaughter, Madison Dyer; many nieces; nephews; other extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Larner; a nephew, Gregory Larner and a niece, Deborah S. Conway.
In celebration of Richard’s life, a memorial visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City on Friday, August 31, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. until time of memorial service at 10:00 a.m. Burial with full military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project and may be accepted at the funeral home. www.irwinchapel.com
