Rick Bark

Rick Bark, age 62, of Thomson, IL, passed away October 12, 2023, at his home with his family. There will be a private family service on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

Rick was born April 19, 1961. At age 4 he had a playdate with a little girl that would later become his wife. Rick married the love of his life, JoEllen Rucker, in 1980 and they were married for 43 years. Together Rick and JoEllen had three children, Alex, Eric and Leah. Rick loved his family and especially loved spending time with his three grandchildren, Morgan, Riley and Vivi. He loved teaching his grandkids things and he cherished his time playing with them and making them laugh.

Rick spent his working years as a machinist, but he lived his whole life learning about everything. In his free time he enjoyed listening to music and was often called “The Jeopardy Man” because he always knew the answer! Rick’s loving demeanor and humor will be missed by all those left to cherish his memory.

Rick will be dearly missed by his wife, JoEllen; children, Alex Oldsen, of Fulton and Leah Bark of Thomson; and his precious three grandchildren. Rick is preceded in death by his son, Eric.