John W. Rice, 92, of Freeport died on Sunday, March 25, 2012, at Freeport Rehabilitation and Health Care Center.
Born on Jan. 11, 1920, in Freeport, he was the son of John A. and Jenny (Zanoni) Rice. He married Irene Krahmer on June 13, 1953, and she died on Sept. 24, 1976. He married Lavone D. Koch on July 29, 1977, in Cedarville.
John was a veteran of World War II, serving in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe.
He worked for Structo Manufacturing for 11 years, 12 years at W.T. Rawleigh, and 13 years at Micro Switch from where he retired.
His memberships included Faith United Methodist Church, Excelsior Masonic Lodge, Freeport Consistory, Golden K. Kiwanis, and several years with Big Brothers.
Surviving are his wife, Lavone of Freeport; one step-son, David (Judy) Koch of Rockford; two step-daughters, Diana (James) LaForge of Rockton and Donna (Richard) Riha of Cherry Valley; eight step-grandchildren; and 11 step great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife.
Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 28, at Faith United Methodist Church. His funeral service will follow, starting at 11 a.m. at the church.
Following the service, his body will be cremated and his cremains will be buried at Oakland Cemetery.
A memorial fund has been established in his name.
Please view the Family Guest Book and sign the condolence page at www.walkermortuary.com.