David Rice, 68, passed away at 4:33pm on Saturday, February 6, 2021, at OSF St. Anthony’s Hospital in Alton. He was born on November 5, 1952, in Alton, the son of the late Louis R. “Dick” and Patricia “Pat” (Rawlins) Rice. He married the former Janelle Bundridge on September 5, 1981, in Wood River, and she survives. Other survivors include a daughter: Jody Rice of Alton, two sons and a daughter in law: Cory Rice of Brighton, Nick and Jessie Rice of Rosewood Heights, four grandchildren: Drew Hawkins, Katie Hawkins, Grantley Rice, Brooks Rice, a great granddaughter: Aurora Tucker, his cousin: Chris Retzer, a sister in law: Nancy Bundridge of Wood River, a nephew: Jake and Jessica Bundridge of Wood River, two great nephews: Aidan Bundridge, Jackson Bundridge, and a great niece: Adaline Rose Bundridge.
Dave Graduated from Roxana High School in 1970. He worked numerous jobs, but was always employed in maintenance. He was a true Mr. Fix it. He loved to tinker, take things apart, and learn how they worked. He was a man who was ahead of his time, always eager to learn new technology and enjoy the latest electronics. Dave was as up to date with local weather reports as any meteorologist. Family members didn’t need to watch Dave Murray on the nightly news for his weather reports. Dave Rice was their go to weather man, rarely leading them a stray. He spent many hours fishing and spending time with his family and friends on Lake Taneycomo. He was always up for game of pool and enjoyed playing his guitar while reminiscing about seeing Led Zeppelin live as a teenager in San Diego, CA. He loved watching sports, especially the St. Louis Cardinals, but always chose to mute the tv and listen to the games on 1120 KMOX. That way, according to him, he would know what was going to happen, before anyone else saw it on tv.
He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 2859 Auxiliary in Wood River, the Sons of the American Legion through the East Alton American Legion Post 794, and the Wood River Moose #1349.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother in law: Larry Bundridge and his nephew: Daniel Bundridge.
In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Funeral services will be held at 11am on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at the funeral home. Pastor Dan Smith will officiate. Burial will follow at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey.
A celebration of his life will be held at Mac’s Time Out in Alton immediately following the graveside services.
Due to the current Covid – 19 restrictions, face masks will be required and social distancing guidelines will be adhered to.
Memorials are suggested to Toys for Tots and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.
