Richard E. “Eddie” Gaines

Richard E. “Eddie” Gaines, 73, of Galesburg, died unexpectedly Sunday, November 22, 2015, in the emergency room of OSF St. Mary Medical Center.

He was born April 26, 1942, in Galesburg, the son of Richard H. and Alice Louise (Wilkins) Gaines.  He married Sharon J. Dorsey January 26, 1963 and later Charlotte L. Tucker on October 10, 1987 in Galesburg.

He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Charlotte; his mother, Alice Louise Hays, formerly of Galesburg; children, Steven E. (and Penny) Gaines of Altona, Robert E. (and Sherry) Gaines of Galesburg, Debra Brasmer of Galesburg, George David (and Terri) Showalter II of New Boston, Robbie D. (and Linda) Showalter of Galesburg, Robin R. (and the late Dave) Wolford of Galesburg, and Brenda (and Bucky) Showalter of Galesburg; 17 grandchildren; and 19 great grandchildren with one on the way.  He was preceded in death by his father, Richard H. Gaines; his step father, Joe Hays; a daughter, Susan Marie; and a brother, Jim.

Eddie worked as an assembler at John Deere for 38 years, retiring in 2001.  He graduated from Galesburg High School in 1961 and lived his entire life here.  He attended Carl Sandburg College, taking a number of classes over the years.

Eddie was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 285, the Elks Club 894, Galesburg Rifle Club, National Rifle Association, ABATE, UAW Local 865, and Alpha Masonic Lodge 155 AF&AM.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, and spending time with his family.  Eddie would do anything for anybody.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, November 27, 2015 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel.  Masonic rites will follow at 7 p.m.  Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, November 28, 2015 at the chapel.  Burial will be in Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Knox County Humane Society.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.