Richard Doyle Obituary

PEORIA - Architect Richard L. Doyle of Peoria died Saturday, July 15th, 2006, in Peoria.

He was born May 1, 1919, in Franklin Park, Ill., to Mildred Martin and Richard E. Doyle.

A musician and composer in Chicago, he served as a band leader in the United States Army from 1939 to 1947, and was part of the occupation force in Japan after World War II. Several of his musical compositions are held in the Library of Congress.

He married Donna A. Draland on June 15, 1948, in Minocqua, Wis. For most of their life together, until Donna's passing on June 5, 2003, they resided in Peoria.

He is survived by Dr. Mary Agnes Doyle of Chicago, Rebecca Doyle of Monica, and their families.

Services were private.

After his military service, he became an architect and structural engineer, establishing Doyle Associates Architects in Peoria in the early 1950s. Notable Peoria public designs include the Peoria Heights Water Tower, the Peoria Heights Village Hall, the Peoria Heights Kelly Avenue Library, the Forest Park Foundation Building, the Bradley University Field House, the Whitney Veterinary Hospital, and the Peoria City Hall historical restoration. He was principal architect for Peoria School District 150, and for numerous churches, schools, civic and civil defense structures throughout the Midwest. For the American Institute of Architects, he served as a Judge for the National Panel of Arbitrators since 1955. He also was a Distinguished Service Associate with the Illinois Association of School Boards, past president of the District 325 School Board, and past president of the SW-Kiwanis Club of Peoria.

Contributions in his name may be made to the Peoria Heights Congregational Church, which he designed, or to Peoria City Beautiful.

The Wilton Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Peoria Journal Star on Jul. 23, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Doyle

10 Entries

Cindy James

August 17, 2006

I was very saddened to hear of Mr. Doyle's passing and want to express my condolences to his family and friends. I work in the same building where Mr. Doyle's office is located. I always enjoyed speaking with him. Even though his health was failing, he always managed to greet me with a smile. He faced his trials with grace and dignity. He will be greatly missed by everyone here. I will keep you all in my prayers, especially you Mary.

Lynnda White

August 4, 2006

Dear Maggie and Paul,

My heart goes out to both of you.

Maggie, You have endured much and given much as you watched over your family these past years. I know it wasn't Mr. Doyle's habit to pile on the praise, but it was obvious to everyone that your Da counted on you and was proud of you and your accomplishments.

Paul, it was remarkable how you seemed to cajole Mr. Doyle into laughter or good humor, or simply accepting that your version/vision of the world was acceptable--for that moment, at least.

My favorite memory of Mr. Doyle is at your wedding. I can just see him now, beaming almost as much as you both, Maggie and Paul. He was surrounded by his grandchildren, and there was a lot of laughing going on. With all of you together, that must have been one of the most joyous moments of his life.

Although Mr. Doyle was admired for his many architectural feats, his true monument is his family. Please accept my condolences as you face the loss of your father, father-in-law, friend.

Edie Anderson Jordan

July 29, 2006

Mary Agnes, I and my late husband Paul Anderson held your father in high esteem. I am sorry to hear of his passing. He was a good friend to us, and we spent some good times in his company.

Helen Wade

July 28, 2006

Dear Maggie and Paul,

My sympathy on your loss. I enjoyed reading about the many experiences that he had. I knew that he had created several landmarks but never knew that he was a bandleader and composer. I hope that you were able to enjoy the last few months with him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely,

Janie Kelley

July 27, 2006

Dear Maggie and Paul-

I will miss your dad. He was a terrific guy, and we really enjoyed our time with him.

I'm so glad to live within walking distance of many buildings that he designed - particularly your house. It will always be your house to me.

I had no idea that he was instrumental in the design of Bradley's fieldhouse. It's one of my favorite places in Peoria. Airplane hangers- what an original idea! I didn't realize he was a band leader as well. He loved great design, music, history, Blanche - he just loved and embraced life. He really left his imprint.

And he loved you most of all.

With love from your pals, the Kelleys

Kris Hoffman

July 27, 2006

Dear Mags,

You said it all when you were just a little girl: "My dad's the BEST dad 'cause he's Dick Doyle." Who could argue with that logic?

I have so many memories of your dad that just make me smile. He had such a gusto for life! What a brilliant mind he had - a person chock full of ideas.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and Paul as you learn to incorporate this great loss into your lives.

Love always, Hoff

Jane Burden

July 27, 2006

Dear Mags,

How sorry I was to hear of your father's death. A great loss for you I'm sure. It's all those wonderful memories that are tucked away inside that keep us going and him alive within us. There is rarely a dad when I don't reflect on my Dad. We were their special girls. Lucky us! Keep strong, and know that my prayers and thoughts are with you.

Love, Janie

Maryruth Ginn

July 26, 2006

Dear Mag--

I was shocked to see the article in the paper--but it was fun to see the many design projects credited to your dad.

The most joyful part of the article was the history of his musical career. That is certainly Irish.

I always enjoyed being around your family.

Not a dull moment! My thoughts are with you. Maryruth

Ron Shields

July 25, 2006

Dear Maggie and Paul,

I am so sorry to learn of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you both during this time.

Your friend.

Ron Shields

Mary Fosco

July 25, 2006

Dear Maggie and Paul,

I was so sad to hear of the passing of your father. I am so grateful that we have gotten to know each other due to my mother and your father being on the same floor. And the wonderful holiday meals we shared that you prepared.

I am forever grateful for our time together with your father and my mother. And whenever Paul would join us.

Your father was a joy. And I have many fond memories of the time we spent together at the Home.

Please know that he will be missed. And know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

I just returned today from my mother's funeral on Fri. Isn't it ironic that they both passed just 4 days apart.

Look forward to seeing you and Paul in the future. And look forward to our continued friendship.

Much love,

Mary Ann

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