Richard V. Mendenhall

Richard "Rick" Mendenhall, 71, of Palestine, IL, passed away on April 10, 2024, in the comfort of his son's home in Palestine. Born on November 5, 1952, in Robinson, IL, Rick's early years in the Palestine area were filled with the kind of mischief that legends are made of. A graduate of Robinson High School, he was known for stirring up the town alongside his brother Nolan, living life to the brim with a youthful exuberance that would define his character for years to come. Rick's resilience and love for life were evident in the way he lived each day to the fullest, especially in his most rambunctious moments. Following high school, Rick entered the workforce with vigor. His stint at Briggs Pottery led to a brief tenure as a truck driver for Pepsi, but he found his true calling truck driving for Tempco, a job that allowed him to stay close to home and be with his family every weekend. His devotion to his loved ones was further demonstrated as he helped his son Brian build grain bins on his days off.

A man of many interests, Rick exhibited his skill tinkering in and around the house and on his 1955 Belair, which was the apple of his eye, as were the Harley motorcycles he rode as an active member of ABATE. Western films, especially those starring John Wayne and Clint Eastwood, offered him solace in quieter times. A natural outdoorsman, Rick relished the tranquility of fly fishing in Arkansas, Missouri, and Tennessee, where the cool river waters offered him solace from his chronic back pain. Whether he was playing pool, ping pong, or indulging in his orneriness by playfully picking on those around him, Rick's lively spirit and sense of humor were infectious. It must also be noted that Rick's ability to strike up a conversation with anyone was unparalleled. He possessed a gift for dialogue that could turn strangers into friends over the course of a multi-hour exchange!

In 2009, Rick faced a life-altering accident that would test his resolve. Overlooked nerve damage in his neck led to a slow paralysis, a challenge he faced with exceptional courage and grace. In fact, it could be said that Rick's passion for life remained unbridled. He found joy in watching Gaither Homecomings and car shows on TV, feeding his love of old cars. More than anything, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He adored them to the point that he inquired about them every day.

As we bid farewell to Rick Mendenhall, we celebrate a man who embraced life with open arms and left an indelible mark on the hearts of all he touched. His stories, lessons, and laughter will resonate forevermore in the lives of those he loved: his children & their spouses, Brian & Nichole Mendenhall, Rachelle Simms, and Richard "Rick" & Kayla Mendenhall; his grandchildren, Isabella, Elliot, Emilee, Kane, and Hailey; his siblings, Leon Mendenhall, Margaret Littlejohn, Ronnie Mendenhall, Bruce Mendenhall, Keith Mendenhall, and Dawn Hussey; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl & Margaret Ruth (Graham) Mendenhall; his brothers, Terry Mendenhall (in infancy) and Nolan Mendenhall, Sr.; his sisters, Linda Ragland and Kathy York; and his grandson, Sawyer Mendenhall.

A time of visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 20th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine. A memorial service will immediately follow and be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, with Pastor Scott Mendenhall officiating. During the service, family and friends will be given the opportunity to share some of their favorite memories of Rick and speak to the fullness of his life.