Richard “Dick” Henry Wiegel, of Clay City, Illinois, was born on January 23, 1938, in Chicago, to Henry and Elfrieda Wiegel, beginning a life rooted in hard work, devotion to family, and simple joys. He passed away Friday, May 22, 2026, at the age of 88.
He spent his early years in Chicago and attended Jefferson High School there until the age of 15, when his family moved to Brandon, Florida. It was there that he finished high school and began the next chapter of his life.
After graduating, Dick answered the call to serve and joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for four years. After receiving his honorable discharge, he returned home and built a life in Clay City, where he purchased a farm and dedicated himself to both farming and his work at the International Shoe Factory in Flora. It was during this time that he met Linda Dennis, who would become the love of his life. They were married on December 15, 1967, at Golden Church and went on to share 58 years of marriage together.
Dick will be remembered for the things that brought him joy and the steady presence he was to those who loved him. He was an avid gardener, known throughout Southern Illinois for his tomatoes, and he found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—sharing time with family, trying new restaurants, and resting peacefully beneath the shade tree.
Throughout his life, he remained active in the community and was a proud member of the Flora Masonic Lodge, the Clay City/Sailor Springs American Legion, and the Clay City United Methodist Church.
Dick leaves behind a family who loved him deeply: his wife, Linda, of Clay City; his sons, Rich Wiegel of Flora, and Hank (LuCinda) Wiegel of Louisville; and his daughter, Misty (Steve) Wheeler of Clay City. He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Jessica (Tony) Marengo, Bobbie Jo (Andy) Ray, Justin (Lorien) Wiegel, Chuckie (Leah) Wheeler, and Scott (Breanna) Taylor; six great-grandchildren; and extended family members Daniel Thomas, Chuck Hurt, Elizabeth Pearce, and Julie Boyd. He is also survived by his sister, Sandra Smith, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Chlorus and Leona Dennis; his brothers-in-law, Ralph Dennis, Terry Casey, Gene Smith, and John Cox; and his sister-in-law, Shirley Cox.
A funeral ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Pastor Marty Ellison officiating. Burial will follow at Foster Hill (Mt. Zion) Cemetery in Clay City with the presentation of military funeral honors. Visitation will be from 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, May 29, at the funeral home. Masonic funeral rites will begin at 7 p.m. Friday. Memorial donations are suggested to the family for expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com
