Richard Dale Essington, 67, was greeted by awaiting family members in heaven on August 11, 2019. He was born on May 5, 1952, in Kankakee, IL to Donald and Shirley Essington. Richard lost his parents tragically at the age of 4 and he and his two brothers were raised by their aunt and uncle, Dean and Marjorie Essington, Kankakee, IL. Richard was also preceded in death by his Uncle Dean, his brother, Kevin Essington, and his sister, Pamela Essington.

Perhaps the biggest joy in his life was the birth of his two daughters, Rhonda (Kevin) Greene of Salem, IL and their sons, Trevor, Samuel, and Andrew and Jill (Jesse) Tooper, of Tega Cay, SC and their sons, Gabriel, Caleb, and Tristan.

Richard is also survived by his brother, Phillip (Diane) Essington of Redmond, WA and their sons Jason (Cheryl) Essington and Tadd (Cassie) Essington. Richard is also survived by his sister, Karen Boudreau of Champaign, IL who was devoted to caring for him in his last years. His niece, Alicia Boudreau, Prescott Valley, AZ and nephew, Timothy (Katie) Boudreau of Savoy, IL also shared a special bond with "Uncle Dick."

Richard graduated from Herscher High School and was drafted and served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War Era.

His life will be memorialized by a family gathering at a later date. Baier Family Funeral Services, Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorials may be made to an organization of the donor's choice. Condolences may be offered at www.baierfuneralservices.com .