Obituary Detail


Richard L. Inman - 74
10/27/1935 - 3/22/2010

Somonauk, IL - Richard L. Inman, 74, of Earlville, IL passed away, Monday, March 22, 2010 at his home. He was born October 27, 1935 in Normal, IL, the son of Frank and Vada (Anderson) Inman. He married Donna Green on August 27, 1960 in Elgin, Illinois. He was formerly employed by Leland High School for 39 years, he taught health, PE, driver’s ed and was Athletic Director. He coached all sports that Leland High School had to offer and had a great degree of success. He earned various awards including being inducted into the Illinois Hall of Fame for Basketball.

He is survived by his wife, Donna of Earlville, IL; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Frank Travis Inman.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 26, 2010 at Turner-Eighner Funeral Home in Somonauk with Chuck Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Little Indian Creek Cemetery in Leland. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 25, 2010 at Leland High School gymnasium. Memorials may be directed to Leland High School to establish a scholarship in Richard’s name. For more information or to sign the online guest book go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com.

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home
13160 Rt. 34 W.
Somonauk, IL 60552
815-498-2363


Visitation:
5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Leland High School gymnasium

Service:
10:00 a.m., Friday, March 26, 2010
Turner-Eighner Funeral Home
Somonauk, Illinois

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Visitor Comments
Donna, So Sorry to hear about Dick.I will miss the barbs from him when he saw me. He was great fun. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. He's coaching the # 1 team now. We're sorry we can't be with you at this sad time. We'll see you when we get home. Doris & Ky
Doris Erickson
3/23/2010 1:03 PM
 
Our thoughts are with you at this trying time. The Mike Decker Family
Mike Decker
3/23/2010 1:18 PM
 
Donna, I am so sorry to hear that Mr. Inman passed away He was a wonderful man, great teacher, and I am sure a great husband. We will all miss him. He touched so many lives at Leland High School, mine included. It is with great regret that I will not be able to make the services. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. Respectfully, Jeff Bratko LHS Class of 1987
Jeff Bratko
3/23/2010 9:32 PM
 
Donna, You are in our thoughts and prayers. Many lives were touched by him in our small community. We are sorry for your loss. The Andy Anderson Family.
Kris Anderson
3/23/2010 10:55 PM
 
Donna, I am so sorry to learn of Dick's passing. He came to Leland while I was in college. As a Serena graduate, I learned who he was his first year at Leland. In the summers, I worked for DeKalb Ag and worked with Dick. We remained friends ever since. I retired as Supt. of Mendota HS in 2004, but have I seen Dick a number of times since, most recently at the Sandwich Fair. I consider him one of my most treasured friends in the education profession. He had a positive impact on so many students and was loved by all. He also made a most positive impression on teachers and administrators throughout the area. I regret that distance prevents me from paying my respects in person as I moved to Blue Springs, MO (near Kansas City) in 2006. He will remain in my memory for years. You are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Larry Sebby
3/23/2010 11:32 PM
 
Mrs. Inman, I was so sorry to here about "Coach's" passing. Even though I hadn't seen him for quite some time when I talked to my Leland friends I would always ask about you guys. I graduated from Leland in 1969 and played all sports for Coach in his first years at Leland. It was because of him that I went to and graduated from Western Illinois University and majored in Physical Education. We had our 4oth class reunion this past summer and he was one of the topics of conversation. We are thinking of you at this time of sorrow. Aaron & Debbie Jacobs McHenry, Il.
Aaron Jacobs
3/24/2010 7:42 AM
 
My deepest sympathy goes to you and your family. I went to Leland High School and had Mr. Inman as a teacher. He was always so much fun and could always bring a smile to your face. He will be missed by the many lives he touched at Leland High School. He was a good man. God Bless.
Deb Lynch (Burklund)
3/24/2010 9:49 AM
 
Mrs.Inman, both Shirley and me were sorry to learn of Richard's unexpected death. He was a very important part of our high school days at Normal Community High School. Richard kept the athletic department functioning. He provided the athletes with towels, equipment, daily practice gear, etc. I remember one football game where I got kicked in the head pretty hard (it made a big dent in my helmet)...I was very dizzy, and Richard was given the assignment to see if I could remember the "plays" from the play book...I could not remember the plays, and so I was kept out of the game...this is a simple illustration of how he meant so much to all of us. We will miss him, and wish the very best to you and your extended family.
James Maxey
3/24/2010 11:33 AM
 
Mrs. Inman, I was so sorry to hear the news about Coach Inman and you are in my prayers. We all had some pretty great times on the basketball court and on the track! He will never be forgotten! I wish I could be there Thursday and Friday but I am unable to get away! You will be in my thoughts! Danie
Danie Hecathorn Smock
3/24/2010 12:57 PM
 
Donna, you have our deepest sympathy for your loss. Dick is a great loss to all of us who knew him. I had him for a coach when he was in his first year at Leland, when I was a senior. He was also our class sponsor and went on our senior trip with us. He was like a second dad to me. If you had a problem, you could always go to Dick for help. A nicer person, I've never known. I have many great memories of him that I will never forget. May perpetual light shine upon him in heaven. I will never forget him. May God bless you too, Donna. He will comfort you in this time of sorrow. Jim Hatland Las Vegas, NV nsfnv@embarqmail.com
Jim Hatland
3/24/2010 1:56 PM
 
Mrs. Inman, we are so sorry for your loss of our livewire classmate Richie! He usually kept all of us up to date on how our teams were doing. We will sorely miss his cheerful spirit at our NCHS reunions. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Norman Cover
Norman Cover
3/24/2010 3:20 PM
 
So sorry to hear of your losss. He was a great man! I had him for a teacher in Leland he was pretty awesome! Always made u smile. Drivers ed with him was always a good time!! He is on to bigger and better things now! Remember he is always watching over you and you can always talk to him. My condolences
Teresa Smith
3/25/2010 1:45 AM
 
On behalf of the whole Larson family ( Roberta, Jackie, Jeff, Vicki, Jason and Jodie) please accept our most sincere simpathy on Dicks passing. Both you and Dick were and are good friends to our family throughout the years, and he will be missed.
the Larsons
3/25/2010 11:28 AM
 
Donna, On behalf of the Schalow family (Mike, Dawn, Jake & Kyle - from Kaukauna, WI) we wish to express our sincere sympathies to you and your entire family at this time of lass. Although our time living and working in Leland was short, our friendship with Dick had lasted the years. Every time we would be back in the Leland/Earlville area, Dick would always be sure to spend some time with us. Over the years as our sons grew up, they would always love to get back to Leland to hear Dick (Mr. Inman) tell the stories of their dad's coaching days. Although we were able to connect but once or even less each year, it was always just like we never had left. Dick was a good man, a great friend, a wonderful story teller, and the most avid supporter of youth/high school sports we have ever known. May you find comfort in his death knowing that he made such a wonderful difference in the lives of those he worked with. We regret that we cannot pay our respects in person but we want you to know that we will be thinking of you, praying for you, and also celebrating all of the wonderful things about Dick we will cherish. God's blessings to you and your family at this sad time. Sincerely, Mike, Dawn, Jake & Kyle Schalow
The Michael Schalow Family
3/25/2010 12:56 PM
 
Mrs. Inman, I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. Inman was a wonderful mentor to me while I was in school at Leland. He inspired many students to do great things. I was saddened to hear of his death. Take Care & God Bless. Juanita (Class of 1983)
Juanita (Johnson) Ludtke
3/25/2010 1:52 PM
 
Mrs. Inman - my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I graduated in 1983 from Leland and have so many wonderful memories of Mr. Inman - from coaching me in soccer & volleyball to the patience he had with us starting to drive. What great conversations we used to have driving around Leland - he was always making us laugh. Throughout all of these years, I have thought of him often, at times referring to him to my sons when they are complaining of their coaches, stating a "tough coach" is a good coach! Mr. Inman was certainly a treasure and I feel so blessed with the honor of knowing such a great man. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories that he has given you and also given all of us. God Bless You!
Kim (Burklund) Wood
3/25/2010 2:39 PM
 
Donna, Was saddened to hear of the passing of Dick. He was always a pleasure to see and to visit with. We shared a lot of common things such as the love for basketball. And of course being born in the same year we could discuss the good old days and the many good times. Pat and I send our sympathy.
George Durbin
3/25/2010 3:25 PM
 
Mrs Inman our deepest sympathy to you and you family. It seems like just yesterday you and Dick attended our wedding. Dick was a great friend. He always knew how to make us smile. Dick will be missed. Patty and Bud Butler
Patty&Bud Butler
3/25/2010 5:18 PM
 
Mrs Inman, my prayers are with you at this time. He was definitely an original. He made an impact on every student that walked the halls of Leland High School, even me. May the joy of memories as well as God's love give you comfort. Paul J Benson (class of '88)
Paul Benson
3/25/2010 6:04 PM
 
He will always be remembered as you share the stories and the memories of how he lived his life and how very much he meant, may you find comfort...And, throughout this difficult time, may you also know the deep sympathy and concern that is felt for you and all your family. I have fought the fine fight, I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith.-2Timothy 4:7. As for me, I will lie down that I may sleep; I shall certainly awake, for Jehovah himself keeps supporting me. -Psalms 3:5
Magallon Family
3/25/2010 7:46 PM
 
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mr. Inman never met a stranger. He was an amazing man who made everyone feel a part of something. He had a great way of making sure everyone felt included. Years might have gone by between our sightings, but he always knew who I was, always asked about my mom and dad (who were also his students,) and always asked if Mrs. J ( my grandma) was staying out of trouble! Mr. Inman was a rare treasure and will be missed. Tracy Steinbach (LHS class of '88)
Tracy (Coleman) Steinbach
3/25/2010 7:48 PM
 
Mrs. Inman-I worked with Dick for three years in the Leland School District and it is my pleasure to call him a mentor and friend. Dick showed me ways to become a better coach and teacher. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Mr. Bill Moris
3/25/2010 8:15 PM
 
Mrs. Inman, I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Coach Inman has touched so many lives over the years. We have all spent so many years growing up around him. Even though we have all moved on, he has never left our memories. Thank you Mr. Inman for all the times you made us laugh and for everything you tought us. I still remember doing figure 8's in the back of the school parking lot for drivers ed. class. Everytime I saw him he always had a smile on his face. God's blessings.
Robin (Robart) Braun
3/26/2010 12:03 AM
 
Mrs. Inman, I am sorry to read about Dick's passing. I got to know him coaching track at Mendota. It was always a pleasure to see him at track meets, and it was a pleasure to be associated with him. What a nice man. Please accept my condolences.
John Jackson
3/26/2010 1:05 AM
 
Donna - I'm sorry I couldn't make the services as I am still living in Los Angeles and just heard the news a few hours ago. I will be praying for you. Mr. Inman made such an impact on my life in so many positive ways. He always treated me like a daughter and I'm grateful he pushed me harder than anyone else to pursue a life worth living, which he demonstrated to me through his own life. Thank you for allowing him to be away from home all the time - I am a product of his time and persistent efforts! Also, I want to say thank you to you for helping me with my English homework in high school and talking to me on the phone when Mr. Inman wasn't there. The kindness of both you and Mr. Inman will never be forgotten. Many blessings, Wendy
Wendy Wiley
3/26/2010 1:32 AM
 
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. In High School I wasn't much of a fan...after breaking my leg pretty badly and all was said and done, I limped , I remember coach Inman constantly riding me that if I didnt stop it I was going to limp for the rest of my life. I adjusted because he kept after me I am thankful that he kept on me he was a great man and I am thankful he was part of my life. I didn't think he would ever get me through drivers ed though...poor guy. Again thinking of you in your time of loss.
Tina Coleman-Claahsen
3/26/2010 1:26 PM
 
Mrs. Inman - I'm sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Inman. He was a great coach and inspirational teacher. As many have stated and I'm sure you have heard over the last few days there are many stories and memories that we all have and I have mine that I will cherish forever. It's amazing how a small community can become so large when someone has touched the lives of generations of families in the community and abroad. I always found it amazing that even after years had passed he always remembered me and inquired about the family. I will greatly miss watching his face light up when approaching him to say and "Hi" and then receiving his great smile. The community has truly lost a legend and will be missed. Take Care. Teresa (Beck) Duffin - LHS Class of 1985.
Teresa (Beck) Duffin
3/26/2010 1:45 PM
 
Donna, I was so sad to hear of your loss and wanted to give you my deepest sympathy during this difficult time. Richard was such an awesome person and from reading the different messages from this website he was definately loved very much. I will miss him coming in to give me a hard time about rates. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kim Mason
3/26/2010 4:46 PM
 
There were so many goood times at the Curl Inn. We willl always remember you, Dick and the laughter and fun we shared. God bless and our prayers are with you.
Rich and Jeanne Davis
3/26/2010 10:24 PM
 
Donna, I am so sorry to learn about Dick's death. It evidently was sudden. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Fouts
3/27/2010 12:35 PM
 
Mrs Inman i'm sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. He always seemed to be laughing. Very nice man! May God be with you at this time. God Bless you!
Billy Gerard
3/27/2010 4:57 PM
 
DONNA, We were shocked and saddened when we heard Ritchie is gone. Our prayers are with you. He was/is a Great friend, one of our very closest from our past. I spent countless evenings with him, we entertained Vada and Frank with our harmonizing, and you were a joy to his life when he met you. There's only one Ritchie Inman and we all will miss him. We'll look for you down the road. Love from bob and sally cushman
Bob & Sally Cushman
3/28/2010 1:36 PM
 
Dear Mrs. Inman, I was saddened to hear of Mr. Inman's passing. He was a part of many great memories from both jr. high and high school! I will always picture him leaning against the h.s. gym bleacher railings and "razzing" everyone who walked by! He was a great man and will be missed by the many people he inspired. I'm so sorry I was unable to attend his services, but I was out of town. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Paula (Class of 1990)
Paula Johnson Laurvick
3/29/2010 12:29 PM
 
To Mrs. Inman, I am a former student,from Leland, I was so sadened to hear of the death of Richard. He was always my favorite teacher, coach drivers ed.teacher... and such a wonderful person. I will miss him dearly. I am so glad I got to see him last year at the Earlville Car Show, and talk with him for a while. I will always have a place in my heart for him. Please accept my deapest sympathy... Mary Nixon
Mary (Robart) Nixon
3/29/2010 11:43 PM
 

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