PEKIN - Richard W. Woodmancy, age 61, of Pekin passed away and left this world as the New Year came in on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015, with his wife, Ronna; his two brothers, Scott and Tom; and his dog, Majestic, by his bedside.

He was born July 14, 1953, in Pekin. He was the son of the late Russell W. Woodmancy and Thelma (Fandel) Woodmancy. She survives, along with many relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Russell W. Woodmancy Jr. on Dec. 10, 2014.

He graduated from Pekin Community High School and went on to ICC. His work ethic started at an early age, delivering the Pekin Times and then he worked at Larkin's Home Bakery. He was employed by Caterpillar for 36 years. He served the Union, holding the offices of safety committeeman, safety alternate chairman, steward, Mapleton grievance committeeman, Mapleton member-at-large (Executive Board), C.A.P. Council delegate and Mapleton General Council delegate. While at Caterpillar, he was the president of the "Mad B#%*@&!$ Club." This was the meeting of UAW brothers before work in his office. They would drink coffee, share stories, tell jokes and plan their day.

The great joys of his life were his cars, drag racing when he was younger and attending and watching races as he aged. He enjoyed watching his nephew, Adam Woodmancy, drag race. Cars were his passion. That trait he inherited from his dad. He attended car shows and cruise-ins and watched car shows on television as his cancer progressed. He loved dogs. Majestic, his loyal guardian (a Chow-Chow), never left his side.

He was a great stepdad, never missing one of his daughter Breanna's basketball and softball games. She could melt his heart, forever his little girl. He was selfless, loving, caring and devoted. Whether it was a family member, a friend or union brother, people knew they could count on Dick. He was loved and respected and will be greatly missed.

Special thanks to stepson, Damon Keller and his family; sister-in-law, Kelly; 7 Hamilton Methodist; Dr. Brian Cohen; UAW 974; Al; Tommy S.; Brooks Automotive; and Steve and Angie.

Per his request, he was laid to rest next to his father during a private service. A memorial dinner will be held Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the UAW Hall on Springfield Road in East Peoria.

The family has entrusted Abts Mortuary in Pekin with arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at abtsmortuary.com.