Kenneth R. Richards

Kenneth R. Richards, 79, of Danville, passed away on October 23, 2011 at Carle Hospital in Urbana. Kenny was born July 6, 1932 in Gadsen, Alabama, to Charles and Alice (Elliott) Richie. The family moved to Danville when he was young. Kenny was a self made man, working hard to become successful in his own business as a Ceramic Tile Setter. He took pride in the many jobs he did in the area. He and his wife, Sally (Tyler), enjoyed their life together. He said at the end that he did all he wanted to do in life. He loved his family and had many friends. Many people knew him from the early years when he operated a couple of Danville night clubs including the Joker's Club and Hob Nob. He had many stories to share from those times. Through the years he enjoyed visiting casinos, playing cards, traveling, hunting, golfing, and attending to his Purple Martins. His favorite hobby had been his field trial dogs with which he won numerous championships, including the Kenton World Championship five times. Kenny and Sally were married 53 years and had one daughter. He had difficulty continuing after Sally's death in 2007. Fortunately, a wonderful friend, Deloris Collard, stepped in to brighten his life and be his companion. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother, Dwayne and sister, Jackie. He is survived by his son Jay Richie and his wife, Peggy of Danville, daughter, Alice Sobotka of Evansville, IN, grandchildren, Jayson Cota of Sidell, IN, Ty and Jerad Cota of Danville, Pam Zimmerman of Danville, and Maggie Sobotka of Washington DC, seven great-grandchildren and brother Charlie Richie of Canton, Ohio. A Celebration of Kenny's Life will be held from 10-12 AM Thursday October 27, 2011 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville. Funeral services will be held at 12PM after the visitation with Jay Richie officiating. Burial will be at Springhill Cemetery. Memorials can be made in Kenny's name in lieu of flowers, to the American Diabetes Association. Please join Kenny's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.