Richard "Dick" Alfred Weghorst, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025 surrounded by his family at the age of 84. Born on March 6, 1941, Dick was the son of Alfred F. Weghorst and Lorraine C. Toel. Dick is survived by his wife Donna and family, who brought immense joy to his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Irv and Monnette Schackler, and brother-in-law, Warren Gay.
On October 8, 1960, Dick married the love of his life, Donna Monnette Schackler, and together they built a family filled with love and laughter. He was the proud father of Michele (Allen) Kruse, Michael (Michelle) Weghorst, Cheri Weghorst-Montgomery, and Lisa D. Weghorst. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Perry (Darian) Montgomery, Zac Montgomery, Jenna Weghorst, Mariah Weghorst, and Meghan Reese, as well as his great-grandchildren, Cecelia Lorraine Weghorst, Nora Maren Montgomery, Mason Joseph Montgomery, and Milo James Montgomery. His is also survived by his sister, Pat Gay, his sisters-in-law, Kathryn Kavanagh, and Mary Alice (Mike) Kirby and many nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his beloved golden retriever, Katie.
A 1959 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Dick began his career at Cilco in 1960, retiring in 1996. Retirement did not slow him down, as he enjoyed working at Leath Furniture and Abts Mortuary, where he shared his warmth and humor with everyone he met. His passion for sports was evident in his support for the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Since 1969, Dick and his family cherished vacations at Birch Lakes Resort in Birchwood, Wisconsin, where he found joy in fishing and time spent with family. Dick's faith was a cornerstone of his life; he was an active member of the 3rd and 4th degree Knights of Columbus and the Pekin Moose, and a dedicated parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin, IL, where he served as an usher for many years. His commitment to community was also reflected in his pride for chairing the annual Alfred Weghorst Heart Fund spaghetti dinner years ago alongside his wife.
Known for his infectious sense of humor, Dick never met a stranger and taught his family the value of laughter and togetherness. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and an unwavering dedication to his family and faith.
A special thanks to the Carle Health Methodist ICU and Palliative nursing staff for their care and compassion.
A funeral mass will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. with visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin, IL. Father Michael Andrejek will officiate. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Pekin, IL.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund or St. Jude Children’s Hospital in his name.
The family has entrusted Abts Mortuary in Pekin, IL with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at abtsmortuary.com
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