Richard Louis Grabbe, age 70, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, November 6, 2026, at Clay County Hospital in Flora, Illinois.

Richard was born on December 6, 1955, in Vincennes, Indiana, to Herbert Frederic and Margie Anna (Hall) Grabbe. He graduated from high school in Bicknell, Indiana, before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force.

In July 1979, Richard married Donna Kaye Yingst at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois. Together, they built a life centered around family and were blessed with two daughters, Heather Kaye and Miranda Grace. Richard and Donna shared 33 years of marriage before her passing on October 21, 2012. His love for Donna remained an important part of his life and the story of the family they built together.

Richard began his career as a field engineer in the Air Force and later became an electronic test engineer. He eventually retired from Hella Electronics in Flora, Illinois. His fascination with electronics, robotics, and understanding how things worked extended far beyond his career. He was naturally curious and always enjoyed discovering something new.

Richard loved the Lord and demonstrated his faith through service to others. Over the years, he served in various capacities within the church, including driving the church bus for Red Brush Christian Church before Donna became ill. His faith was an important part of his life, reflected in his willingness to serve wherever he was needed.

Above all, Richard loved his family. He especially enjoyed sharing his love of Legos with his six grandchildren, creating memories through something that brought him so much joy. He also loved gathering around the table to play cards and games with his daughters and their families, as well as his nephew, Eric Irvin and his family. After Donna's passing, these times spent together became a cherished part of family life, filled with laughter, friendly and not so friendly competition, and the simple joy of being together. He also enjoyed watching movies, listening to music, and exploring his lifelong interest in technology and robotics.

Richard was a storyteller who loved sharing memories of his life experiences. Whether recalling the unique neighbors he encountered while living in California or describing the unusual customs and foods he discovered during his travels for work, he always had a story to tell. He also had a wonderfully awkward sense of humor, often finding amusement in things others might not, and delivering jokes in a way that was uniquely his own. Whether his humor brought a laugh, a groan, or a shake of the head, it was simply part of what made Richard, Richard.

Richard is survived by his two daughters, Heather (Ray) Rosch of Louisville, Illinois, and Miranda (Rocky) Brandon of Louisville, Illinois; his six grandchildren, Haley (Gryffin) Cochran of Joplin, Missouri, Lucas and Anthony Rosch of Louisville, Illinois, and Zane, Xander, and Tyson Brandon of Louisville, Illinois; his sister, Mary (Mike) Romeo of Vincennes, Indiana; and his brother, Robert Grabbe of Bicknell, Indiana.

In addition to his beloved wife, Donna, Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Margie Grabbe, and his sister, Terri Irvin.

Richard will be remembered for his love of family, his curious mind, his unforgettable sense of humor, and the faith that guided his life. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he shared, the stories he told, and the memories he created will remain with those who knew him.

Funeral services to celebrate Richard's life will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the Red Brush Christian Church in Louisville, Illinois, with Ben Farleigh officiating. Burial will follow at the Red Brush Cemetery with military funeral honors given. A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 am Wednesday at the church.

Following the burial, family and friends are invited to gather for a meal and fellowship in the church's fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard's memory to and Education Fund for his Grandchildren (checks made payable to Heather Rosch). The McGriff Funeral Home in Louisville is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.