Richard Lee Kirchgessner

Richard Lee Kirchgessner, 74, passed away on July 30, 2025 in Peoria, IL at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Facility. He was born on September 3, 1950 in Peoria, IL to Alfred and Margaretta (Short) Kirchgessner.

Richard was a proud Navy veteran, serving from 1969 to 1975. He then worked most of his career at Multi Ad in Peoria and retiring from there. He was a man of many passions, with a willingness to try new pursuits throughout his life. He was active in many veteran events. He was a member of the American Legion Post 2 and the 22VA, a community of Veteran Artists. He participated in the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. with his brother, Ron. Richard was a Union Civil War re-enactor for the 108th Illinois. He was a resident artist at the Contemporary Art Center in Peoria. He loved camping. He helped organize the Old English Faire at Jubilee Park while in the SCA throughout the 80's. Where he had a booth creating wood block prints with his sons. Richard was a motorcycle enthusiast and a season ticket holder of the IHL and ECHL Peoria Rivermen. He had a 1966 Pontiac Tempest he would take to car shows. He once even ran the axel off his old Datsun from Roanoke, IL to Peoria, IL. His biggest passion though were his sons, grandchildren, and dogs. He was always encouraging of whatever endeavors they pursued and quick to give praise. He always had a smile and was always willing to put himself out there for a laugh.

He's survived by his sons: Robert (Lia) Kiddy; Michael Kirchgessner; grandchildren: Tobias Taylor; Olivia Kirchgessner; Addison, Brendan, Ava Kiddy; great grandchild, Kayden Taylor; siblings: Edwin (Ramona) Kirchgessner; Ronald (Vickie) Kirchgessner; Margaret "Margie" Bowers; aunt Joan Kirchgessner; his dog, Taco; and a host of nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Rose (Jim) Gomes, Thomas Kirchgessner, and Jerry Bowers.

Visitation will be Friday, August 8, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Wilton Mortuary, 2101 N. Knoxville Ave. Peoria, IL 61603. A visitation will also be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 10 am to 11 am at United Presbyterian Church, 2400 W. Northmoor Rd, Peoria, IL 61614; the funeral service will follow at 11 am. Reverend Debra Avery will officiate. Burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery, 7519 N. Allen Rd., Peoria, IL.

Memorial contributions can be made to family. Online condolences and memorials can be submitted at www.cumerfordclary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Cumerford-Clary Funeral Home, Peoria, IL.