LA SALLE - Richard “Rick” L. Simpson, 57, of LaSalle passed away peacefully at home Aug. 5, 2020 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

Due to COVID-19, services will be private. Burial will be at Troy Grove Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is handling arrangements.

Rick was born June 9, 1963 in Peru to William “Bill” and Linda (Crane) Simpson. He married Ronda Parsons.

Survivors include his wife, Ronda; his two children, Lisa (Nick) Sweeney of LaSalle and Scott Simpson of Tonica; two stepsons, Benjamin and Jacob Harris, both of Spring Valley; one sister, Paula Roberts (Mark Setchell) of DeKalb; and two nephews, Tyler Roberts of LaSalle and Spencer McLaughlin of Ottawa.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Rick was a graduate of LaSalle-Peru Township High School. He farmed for most of his life, and worked at Manley Bros. in Troy Gove for over 20 years. Rick never met a stranger that he couldn't strike up a conversation with. He loved hunting and fishing, 2nd Sunday brunches, motorcycles and attending bike rallies where he made friends that became like family.

Memorials may be directed to the donor’s choice.