Richard Buckles Cannon

Richard Buckles (Dick) Cannon died peacefully at his home in Tucson on his 81st birthday, March 27, 2011 after along and courageous struggle with cancer. Dick was born in 1930 and raised in Niantic, Decatur and Springfield, IL. He attended the University of Missouri, graduated from Biltmore College, NC and served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Upon completion of duty he attended the University of Florida and after returning to Springfield he married Mary Frances Sgro in 1954. They resided in Niantic a few years before moving to Springfield where they raised their three sons. Dick owned several business and after his mother's death in 1978, he began farming. He and his wife built a home in Tucson and he returned to Illinois every spring and fall to farm with his sons. Dick was an passionate handball player and enthusiastic sports fan. He enjoyed collecting World War II memorabilia and curated an extensive personal collection. He was also an avid reader of history. Dick loved spending time with friends and family and will be remembered for his devotion and generosity. He is survived by his wife, Mary; his sons, Charles, Mt. Pulaski, IL, Richard (Cindy) Springfield, IL and Lawrence, Buffalo, IL; six grandchildren, Cara (John), St. Louis, MO, Marisa (Aaron), Springfield, IL, Cory, Shaumsburg IL, Brandt, Springfield, IL, Alexis, Springfield, IL and Derich, Springfield and one great-granddaughter, Harper Rose. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Cannon and Cora Cowdin Wilcox and one grandchild, Brenna Cannon. A celebration of life reception will be at the Tucson Botanical Garden, 2150 N. Alvernon Way from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 24, 2011. Arrangements handled by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, DODGE CHAPEL.