Richard E. McNett, age 76 of Lena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford, IL. He was born on July 10, 1948 in Dodgeville, WI; the son of the late Delvin and Doris (Disrud) McNett. He married Kathy Hammond, the love of his life, in 1983, celebrating 49 years of marriage. Together they had a son, Justin. From a previous marriage Rich had a daughter, Tammy and a son, Tom.

Rich served in the United State Army. He worked at Kelly Springfield/Titan Tire. He also owned and operated Rich's Road House in Freeport, IL as wells as The Old Ship (JR's) in McConnell, IL.

He was an avid fisherman, fishing various tournaments. He was on a bowling and a pool league. He enjoyed boating and coaching and watching his son Justin play baseball. He also enjoyed playing euchre and cribbage. Most of all, Rich loved spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy McNett of Lena; children, Tammy (Scott) Riddell of Freeport; Tom (Lindsey) McNett of Fulton, WI; and Justin McNett of Lena, IL; 3 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; sisters, Joyce (Jack) Becke of Freeport, Janice (John) Bauch of Freeport, IL, Jeanne (Ralph) Stietz of Gratiot, WI, and Joleen (Butch) Thommen of Warren, IL; brothers, Ronald McNett of Freeport and James McNett of Shellsburg, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Delvin & Doris; sisters, Jackie Hermann and Jewell McNett; brothers, Roger, Rodney "Pete," and Jerry; nephew, Chase McAuliffe; and niece, Melissa Grimes.

A celebration of life will be held on December 7, 2024 starting at 3:00 p.m. at the Wayside (OLD RICH'S ROADHOUSE) in Freeport, IL. Please come enjoy food, memories, and music in honor of Rich. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences may be shared with his family at www.walkermortuary.com.