Morris Rich Obituary (1933

Morris “Morrie” D. Rich, 91, a life-long farmer in the Saunemin area, passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Carle BroMenn Medical Center, Normal, IL. His visitation will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m., with services to follow at 12:00 pm at Duffy-Baier-Snedecor Funeral Home in Pontiac, officiating will be Rick Plattner, with burial to follow at Sunny Slope Cemetery in Saunemin. Morris was born February 24, 1933, to Ernest and Ethel (Simpson) Rich in Gibson City, IL. He married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Zimmerman on July 12, 1953, at Saunemin United Methodist Church. Morris and Phyllis were married 69 years, when Phyllis passed away on March 9, 2024. Morris is survived by his two daughters, Debbie Rich and Diane (Thomas) Harfst, both of Saunemin. He’s also survived by two granddaughters, Elizabeth (Corey) Harris and Ashley Harfst (Jacob Larkin); his sister, Carol Stiles, along with several nieces and nephews. Morris was preceded in death by his parents; his twin sister, Doris Gingrich and another sister, Barbara Hannum; and one infant brother, Nile Gene. Morris was a 1951 graduate of Saunemin High School and served in the US Army from 1951 to 1955. In February of 1955, Morris started farming for Doc Richardson in rural Odell, a tradition that he continued for the next 69 years. In addition to farming, he was a seed dealer for 38 years. Morris loved raising Hampshire hogs, a project he started while in high school and passed on to his granddaughters. In the summer months he enjoyed showing horses with his daughters and granddaughters for over 40 years. Morris’ passion for agriculture led him to serve as a 4-H Leader for the Emington Hot Shots and both a Horse and Crop Superintendent for Livingston County Fair for two decades. He was an avid John Deer tractor collector, owning dozens of antique tractors over the years. His current collection includes seven tractors that were his pride and joy. The family would like to thank Kathy Finkenbinder, his caregiver, for her wonderful care the past year and Fairview Haven in his final months. Memorials may be made to Saunemin Fire Department, Livingston County Ag and 4-H Fair, Normal FFA, or Flanagan Lady Falcons Basketball. This obituary may be viewed, and guestbook signed at www.duffyfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.