Richard "Dick" L. Traff

Richard Leo “Dick” Traff, 77, of Wataga, passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2018, in Galesburg. Dick was born October 30, 1940, in Galesburg to Paul E. and Dorothy D. (Ballard) Traff. He lived in various cities in Central Illinois, including the Quad Cities and Galesburg. He lived in Wataga for the last 40 years of his life. He loved Wataga and could be seen on his daily walks early each morning. Dick graduated from Galesburg High School in 1958. He then entered the Air Force, serving active duty from 1959 to 1962 and in the Reserves until 1964. He was a cook for most of his service and his culinary skills followed him into his civilian life. Dick was an excellent cook. Following his military service, he worked at the Ammunitions Plant in Burlington, Iowa. He moved from there to work at Butlers and John Deere. His last job was with JI Case, where he was a Government Certified Welder. He retired from JI Case after 22 years. He enjoyed a long and happy retirement. Dick married Patricia J. Guenther (Flynn) on July 17, 1981. They were a match made in Heaven and had many happy years together. He is survived by his wife, his son, Mike Flynn (Wendi Hook) and his two beautiful granddaughters, Mallory and Emily Flynn. These people were Dick's heart and soul. They were his reason for living. They brought him much happiness. Dick is also survived by his sisters and brothers, Sandy Burkhalter, Nancy Hirshbruner, Donnie Traff, Debbie Duffy, Terri Gray, and John Traff. He is also survived by many nephews and nieces, as well as many in-laws and out-laws. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Bob and Ronnie Traff. There's a party going on in Heaven right now....together at last. Dick loved to spend his time in the yard. His gardens and flowers have always been outstanding. His tomatoes and vegetables were second to none. He shared his plants and gardening tips with anyone who asked. He spent hours with his hands in the dirt. He loved birdwatching, battling the squirrels, hunting, fishing and exploring Mother Nature. One of the highlights of his life was a trip he took to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. He appreciated the beauty of nature. He loved the outdoors. Dick loved the Cubs. Their winning the World Series was a moment he treasured. Dick was very handy with his hands. Most of his sisters-in-law have birdhouses he built for them in his spare time. And not just any birdhouses. He used old barn boards and shingles. Masterpieces to be treasured forever.  As mentioned, Dick was an excellent cook. His meals never disappointed his family. His granddaughters would often call him to request something as simple as Macaroni and Cheese because no one made it like Grandpa. He was a master with outdoor grilling, but his inside meals weren't too shabby either. He loved to cook and we all loved to eat what he cooked. He was a big contributor at the family holiday gatherings, anything and everything from cooking and carving the turkeys to making the gravy. He never let us down. He is leaving some big shoes to fill. Dick's biggest joy in life was his family. He cared about their daily lives, following up on illnesses, honor rolls, graduations, volleyball games, cars, and their progress in life. He never missed a day checking on his family. Dick had a great smile and an amazing laugh. The list of people that called him friend is a long one. He always had time for anyone who needed his ear. Dick's untimely passing has been devastating. He will be missed by many. He will live on in our hearts and memories.No funeral services are planned. Cremation has been accorded. A “Celebration of Life” will be at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, 18489 N. Seminary St., Galesburg. .Rest in peace, Dick. We will take it from here.“May the Angels surround Dick with a white light of love and protection as they gently escort him home.”