Richard J. 'Dick' Ely

AMBOY – Richard J. "Dick" Ely, 80, of Amboy, died Saturday, March 24, 2018, at OSF Saint Paul Medical Center in Mendota, after a sudden illness.

He was born Nov. 18, 1937, in Henry, the son of Olen and Hilda (Neuhalfen) Ely. He had farmed, and worked in agricultural services and fertilizer sales at the Walton Plant for many years prior to his retirement. Dick was an avid gardener, and enjoyed his daily drives and spending time at the cabin. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and attending their activities. He served in the National Guard for 6 years. Dick married Karen McCoy on June 15, 1963, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Walton.

He is survived by his wife; children, Curtis (Angie) Ely of Sublette, Ed (Karey) Ely of Amboy, Dennis (Melinda) Ely of Amboy, David (Sue) Ely of Dixon, James (Leslie) Ely of Dixon, and Susan (Dick) Montavon of Oregon; 13 grandchildren, Nicolle, Christopher, Abigael, Mason, Trenton, Madeline, Michael, Morgan, Grace, Lucas and Sophia Ely, and Bailey and Lauren Montavon; one sister, Mary Helen Leffelman of Mendota; one brother, Ned (Carol) Ely of Amboy; and brother-in-law, Melvin Leffelman of Dixon.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gordon Ely; sister, Marjorie Leffelman; and brother-in-law, Hubert Leffelman.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, with a Scripture service at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Mihm-Jones Funeral Home in Amboy. Funeral services will begin with a prayer service at 9:45 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, with the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary Catholic Church in Walton, with the Rev. Timothy Draper officiating. Burial will be at St. Patrick Cemetery in Maytown.

A memorial has been established to the Amboy Fire Protection District.

Visit thejonesfh.com to send condolences.