Donald F. Rice, Jr.

Donald F. Rice, Jr. passed away on August 30, 2023, at Hammond Henry Hospital – Geneseo, after a brief and intense illness. Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 8, 2023, at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel.  Reverend Terry Lancaster will officiate.  Inurnment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Geneseo.  A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., prior to the memorial service at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Geneseo Historical Museum in his name.

Donald was born February 1, 1947, to Donald F. Rice Sr. and Caroline (Choles) Rice. He graduated from J.D. Darnall High School in 1965. Don worked for John Deere Harvester in East Moline retiring in 2006. Don was a lifelong fan of his beloved Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Steelers.  In his retirement, Don enjoyed collecting antiques, especially shaving mugs and barbershop items. Don enjoyed the process of finding new pieces. His collection and knowledge of antiquities was extensive.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, grandchildren, brothers and sisters: Klinton C. Rice and wife Melanie of Geneseo, IL and Katie Nieder and husband Jeff of Gilbert, AZ.  Don was extremely proud of his six grandchildren: Marshall Rice of Des Moines, IA; Rachel, Carson and Charlie Rice of Geneseo, IL; Max Nieder of Gilbert, AZ; and Cpl. Ian Nieder stationed at Camp Pendelton, U.S.A. He also leaves behind his sisters; Amie (Dwayne) Blank and Elaine Call, and brothers; Daryl (Linda) Rice and David (Debbie) Rice and many nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Bussard, and parents.