Richard Stephen Szczeblewski, 73, of Mulkeytown, passed away at 9:15 a.m., November 17, 2015 surrounded by his loving family at the Memorial Hospital, Carbondale, IL. He was born on February 15, 1942 to Steve H. and Velma Ann (Haycraft) Szczeblewski in Perry County, IL. Richard married the former Patricia Bailey and she survives. Mr. Szczeblewski was a United States Air Force Veteran. Richard "Supe" retired as an electrician from the Old Ben Coal Company Mine 26. He proudly attended the Greenwood United Methodist Church in Mulkeytown, IL. In his final years he enjoyed making deer jerky, growing tomatoes and working as a employee at the DuQuoin Wal-Mart. Richard leaves behind, in God's care, his loving wife of 55 years, Patricia "Pat" K. (Bailey) Szczeblewski and two brothers, Charles Szczeblewski and wife Sharon and Wayne Szczeblewski and wife Brenda. He will be deeply missed by his three children, Tracey Vandekerkhove and husband Mike, Jamie Donovan and husband Jeff, Steve Szczeblewski and wife Deb. Richard was also blessed with five precious grandchildren, Stormi Dilliner and husband Brandon, Ty Vandekerkhove and special friend Abbey Jelley, Treg Vandekerkhove and wife Faith, Shad Donovan and Remy Vandekerkhove. His last gift from God was his pride and joy great-granddaughter, Shayne Dilliner and two step-great granddaughters, Makaiden and Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Velma Szczeblewski. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 20, 2015, from 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm at Greenwood United Methodist Church, 2638 Park Street Road, Mulkeytown, IL. Memorial service will be held on Friday, November 20, 2015, 3:30 pm at the Greenwood United Methodist Church, Mulkeytown, IL, with Rev. Richard Sullins officiating. Hobbs-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in charge of services. Cremation was held per the request of Mr. Szczeblewski. Per the family's request in lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Greenwood United Methodist Church or donor's choice and will be accepted at the funeral home.
