Obituary of Richard Close

Richard D. Close "Rick" Age 58. Peacefully, Thursday, June 3, 2010 at his residence following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Jacksonville, NC and a long time Morris area resident. A graduate of Morris High School Class of 1970, and Immaculate Conception Grade School. A Sergeant with the Grundy County Sheriff's Police with over 22 years of service. Formerly employed with the Minooka Police Department, a former Canine Officer for both Minooka Police Department and Grundy County Sheriff's Police until he became a sergeant. Formerly employed by the Youth Correction Center on Cemetery Road and the Sheridan Correctional Center as a Corrections Officer and employed by K&R Oil of Wilmington. A member of the Moose Lodge #1551, the Eagles #1024 and the South Wilmington Firemans Club. His greatest loves in life were hunting, fishing, cooking and spending time with his family and friends. Preceded by his father, Richard J. Close, Jr.; his grandparents, aunts, uncles and one niece Angela. Survived by his loving and devoted wife of 30 years, Kathleen "Kathy" (nee Schmidt) Close of Morris. One daughter Jan Close of Morris; 3 sons, Jason (Krystal Mladic) Barz of Plainfield, Richard D. (Christy) Close Jr. of Morris and Craig (Catherine) Barz of New Lenox. One grandson, Calen Richard Close and one grandchild on the way. His mother, Sylvia (nee Perry) Close. One brother, James (Beth) Close of Seneca, IL; 3 sisters, Laurie (Tim) Hall, Debora (John) Reay and Amy (Robert) Lem all of Wilmington, NC. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and his faithful canine companions, Abby, Cinder, Pebbles and Poppy also survive. Richard D. Close will lie in state Monday, June 7, 2010 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 516 E. Jackson Street, Morris, from 3 until 8 p.m.. The mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at the church at 11 a.m. with Fr. Richard Smith officiating. As it was Richard's request cremation rites will be accorded following the funeral mass. Private Inurnment at Mt. Carmel Cemetery will be held at a later date. Arrangements under the direction of: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 1201 W. Route 6 at Deerpath Drive, Morris For Information: (815) 942-5040