Published on May 13, 2026 3:01 pm
Last Updated on May 13, 2026 3:01 pm
Richard F. Burns, 72, of Altamont, formerly of Oak Lawn, IL, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Effingham Rehabilitation and Health Care Center surrounded by his loving family, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.
No services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made directly to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.
Rick was born on December 2, 1953, in Chicago, IL, the son of John and Shirleigh (Johnson) Rourke. He married Janet Gronek on May 19, 1972, and she survives. Rick was a devoted husband and father, who loved his family. He was a truck driver for 30 years, and enjoyed tinkering in the garage, taking care of his Classic Ford Galaxie, and Harley Davidson Motorcycle. Rick was always eager to meet friends at Luke’s in Altamont every Friday night.
Rick is survived by his wife, Janet Burns; sons, Rick Jr (Cheri) Burns, and Rob Burns; grandchildren, Nathan (Remi) Pontious, Brooke Burns, Jason Burns, and Larson Burns; great-granddaughter, Ophelia Pontious; siblings, Robert (Shelley) Rourke, Patricia (Kurt) Galhouse, Mary (Paul) McCann, Michael (Jane) Rourke, Sheryl Rourke, Joe (Colleen) Rourke, Russell Rourke; sisters-in-law, LaVerne Rourke, and Andrea Rourke.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack Rourke, James Rourke, and Thomas Rourke.