Richard Neal McCurdy, 84, of Alpha passed away, Saturday, October 26, 2024, in Galesburg at Seminary Manor. Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. at the Peterson Wallin Knox Funeral Home in Alpha. The funeral service will be 10 a.m., Thursday, October 31, 2024, at the Alpha United Methodist Church. Interment will be at the Alpha Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be left to Tri County Ambulance, Oxford American Legion Post 1197, or the Alpha Cemetery Association. Online condolences can be made at www.petersonwallinknox.com
Richard was born on January 5, 1940, in Galesburg, the son of Nyle and Ruth Tracy McCurdy. He graduated from AlWood High School with the Class of 1958. That same year he enlisted with the United States Marine Corps and was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. He was Honorably Discharged from the Marine Corps in 1961. The next year, he married the love of his life, Deanna Lambert on June 1, 1962 in Alpha.
Richard farmed the local family farm for 41 years, retiring in 2002. During those years he also worked for Alwood School District driving school bus, drove for Alpha Ready Mix, and Richland Grove Township. When he wasn’t working at the farm, he stayed active as a member of the Alpha United Methodist Church, the Oxford American Legion, and was a longtime board member for the Oxford Township. He enjoyed golfing, playing Pitch and Euchre, watching the Chicago Cubs and Bears, and reading a good book. He loved bowling, and for 30 years he was a member of a team, all consisting of his lifelong friends.
Many will remember Richard for his generosity towards family, friends and various charities. He was a man that lived life to the fullest, and will be truly missed.
Richard is survived by his two children, Todd (Julie Dean) McCurdy of Moline, Mark McCurdy of Alpha; two grandchildren, Samuel and Macy McCurdy; sister, Martha (Wayne) Welch of Alpha; sister-in-law, Linda Zuidema of Alpha; special friend, Marla Whiting of New Windsor; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sister, Mary Hayes; and three brothers-in-law, Lester Zuidema, Ray Hayes and Galen “Skip” Lambert.
