Richard Theodore Popelar

Richard Theodore Frank Popelar, 96, of Metamora, Illinois, passed away in the early hours of Friday, May 1, 2026, at Snyder Village, where he had resided for the past 13 years.

Richard was born on July 23, 1929, in Staunton, Illinois, to Frank and Norma Sophia (Sievers) Popelar, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia, on July 7, 2018, and his stepson, Michael Ringness.

Dick was a devoted husband and faithful companion. During the four years Patricia resided in the health center, he spent each day by her side, often pushing her wheelchair to Sunday church services. Their 46 years of marriage were centered on their shared devotion to God, each other, and their family.

Together, Dick and Pat enjoyed ballroom dancing, wintering in Florida, and spending summers at a lake in Minnesota surrounded by family and friends. Those lake days were filled with fishing, golf, card games, and, always, dessert.

Dick served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he worked as a mechanic repairing jeeps and machinery. Later in life Dick was honored to participate in the Greater Peoria Honor Flight to Washington DC.

Known for his mechanical skill, he was a lifelong “fix-it” man who could repair just about anything. Many weekends were spent in the garage working on cars, especially during the years his sons were growing up. Dick was often called upon by his family to fix everything from lawnmowers, cars, plumbing and electrical work.

He also shared his love of fishing with his grandchildren, teaching them how to fish and clean their catch. Dick and Pat were dedicated supporters of their grandchildren, faithfully attending school events.

Dick retired from Central Illinois Light Company (CILCO) after more than 37 years of service. He began his career as a lineman and cable splicer, often being called out during storms, and later advanced into management.

He is survived by his children: Denise (David) Bozarth of Florida, Greg Popelar of Colorado, and Sue Ellen (Keith) Phelps of Germantown Hills, Illinois; and his stepchildren: Jeff (Ann) Ringness of Germantown Hills, Illinois, and Lorie Diehl of St. Louis, Missouri. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Joshua (Sara) Smith, Laura Phelps, Allison (Josh) Schurman, Jason Diehl, Sara (Ben) Martin, and Garrett (Carrie) Ringness; as well as eleven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Interment will be at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Snyder Village Residents in Need Fund, 1200 East Partridge Street, Metamora, IL 61548, or to Willow Hill United Methodist Church, 304 East Far Hills Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.