*In Journal Star of Peoria, Illinois on Sunday Aug. 2, 2009 (photo included) * * * *RICHARD F. WICKS PEORIA* - Richard F. Wicks, 76, of Peoria passed away at 3:45 a.m. Friday, July 31, 2009, at his residence. He was born Oct. 27, 1932, the son of Melvin and Louise Menzer Wicks. He married Virginia Elliott on Nov. 20, 1955, in McLeansboro, Ill. He later married Marcia Weber on Dec. 14, 1979, in Rock Island, Ill. She survives. Also surviving are his children, Vicki Goyette (wife of Greg) of LeClaire, Iowa, Susan Wicks (wife of Terry Taylor) of Elizabeth, Colo., Richard Todd Wicks (husband of Lisa) of Spencer, Iowa, and Kathy Andrews of Kerrville, Texas. He also is survived by 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his stepchildren, Andrea Neilson of East Dundee, Ill., and Chris Weber of San Antonio, Texas; as well as four stepgrandchildren. He was a U.S. veteran who served as a battalion clerk during the Korean War. He was a graduate of the University of Illinois, earning a master's degree in teaching and specializing in agronomy and soil science. He also was a landlord in the Peoria area. He worked for Morton Buildings for 18 years. Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at the First Assembly of God Church, 4020 N. Brandywine Drive in Peoria, with the Rev. Dean Grabel officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given in his name to Hospice Compassus. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services of Central Illinois, Peoria, is in charge of arrangements.