Richard & Dorothy Rice

Richard F. Rice (96) and Dorothy J. (Crawford) Rice (93), formerly of Viola, Illinois died June 24th and July 24th respectively in San Diego, California.

Graveside services are 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 5th in Viola Cemetery.  Dennison Funeral Home, Viola is handling arrangements.

Richard “Dick” was born at home in Leesburg, Pennsylvania on June 19, 1925 to Frederick and Sara (Orr) Rice.  He served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII from 1942-1945 receiving the bronze star for bravery.

Dorothy was born in Grove City, Pennsylvania on August 2, 1927 to R. Paul and Mabel (Evans) Crawford.  Both graduated from Grove City H.S. and later married on July 19, 1946.

Dick and Dorothy moved to Illinois in 1955, residing first in Toulon and then Geneseo before planting roots is Viola where they lived, worked and raised their family for nearly 50 years.  The next 10 years found them enjoying retirement in Sebring, Florida until eventually moving to San Diego, California.

They enjoyed reading, gardening and family gatherings.  Always a priority to connect with their Christian family no matter where they lived, Dick and Dorothy actively and faithfully served the United Methodist Church.

Survivors and (spouses) include their children:  Richard P. (Debbie), Wayne D. (Marcia Cowdery), JoAnne Larson, and Michael F. (Tracy).  They were also blessed with six grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association:  225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601; or through their website.

Online condolences may be left at www.dennisonfuneralhome.com.