John Louis Richards, 70, died peacefully on August 9, 2016, after a long battle with cancer. Born August 15, 1945 to John and Mary (Serochi) Richards of Oglesby, Illinois, he married Marilyn Beth Spiegel in 1968. John earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Iowa and worked as an engineer for McDonnell Douglas and Ford Motor Company for over thirty years. He and Marilyn raised two children, John and Heather. John and Marilyn retired to Georgetown, Texas in 2004.

A skilled woodworker, John enjoyed crafting furniture for his loved ones. His beautiful handiwork graces the homes of his wife and children. John enjoyed time with friends and family. Driven by his active mind and lifelong intellectual curiosity, John valued education and read extensively in a variety of subjects, including history, science, and current events. He loved dogs and dogs loved him. A resident of four different states in his life, John was most at home in Texas. He felt a deep kinship with the people, culture, and natural beauty of the Lone Star state.

John is survived by his wife Marilyn; his son John (wife Becky) of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his daughter Heather of Villa Park, Illinois; his grandchildren, Daniel, Brody, and Cassidy; his sister Sandy (husband Carl) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and his golden retriever, Bailey. No public services are planned. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Lung Association.

"Someday when we meet up yonder, we'll stroll hand in hand again."

You may share a message or memory in the online memorial guestbook at www.RamseyFuneral.com .