Richard L. “Dick” Pemble

Age 80 • Arizona • Formerly of Joliet and Wilmington, IL

Richard L. Pemble, affectionately known as Dick, age 80, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley in Arizona, following a six-month battle with brain cancer.

Born and raised in Joliet by Homer (Lee) and Fae Pemble. Dick attended Joliet schools, graduating from JTHS Class of 1964.

He served in the United Staes Army from 1966 to 1968 during the Vietnam era and was a proud Vietnam Veteran.

Dick married Mary Ellen (Mellen) Kenney in 1969, and they had 2 daughters, Amy and Colleen, who he lovingly referred to as, “Daughter #1” and “Daughter #2”. The family moved to the “country” (Wilmington) in 1979 where Dick discovered a passion for woodworking, gardening, and was a wonderful cook for his family.

Dick enjoyed fishing and hunting with family and friends, spending many family vacations in Minnesota and Canada. His favorite trips up north included spending time with his Uncle Al and Uncle Stan.

Dick worked as an electrician and was a proud member of IBEW Local 176 for 55 years. He retired in 2004.

Dick and Mellen bought an RV and would spend their winters enjoying the warmth on Mustang Island in Texas, eventually making their home in sunny Arizona in 2019.

Preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Fae, mother-in-law Mary Rita Kenney, and sister-in-law Dorothy Schlette.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Mellen; daughters, Amy Holm (Fritz Iversen) and Colleen (Dave) Crafton; and grandsons, Max and Jake Holm of Alaska, and David Crafton of Plainfield. He also leaves behind his siblings: Terri Hooper, Becky (Gary) Duetschman, Marty (Cindy) Pemble, Dan (Judy Turay-Cheronis) Pemble, Dena (Bob Valente) Lambert, and Ed (Jen) Pemble; along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded. We invite you to celebrate his life at his inurnment service being held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery on May 11, 2026 promptly at 12:30pm. Please arrive by 12:15pm.

Donations to Hospice of the Valley 1510 E. Flower St, Phoenix, Arizona 85014-5656 in his memory would be appreciated.

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