Richard F Corken

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard (Dick) F. Corken. Dick died peacefully March 22, 2024 surrounded by his loving wife and daughters following a brief illness. Private family services will be held. Inurnment at Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family.

Born December 4, 1941, to Francis Corken and Lora (Beck) Corken, Dick grew up in Dubuque, IA and then Rock Island, IL. He attended Alleman High School where he met the love of his life, Sharon Lindsay. They graduated from Alleman class of 1959 and were married March 26, 1960.

Dick began his career with John Deere while attending St. Ambrose College. By the time he graduated with a degree in physics, he had four daughters, who he was endlessly proud of. His career at John Deere spanned 42 years, starting in the mailroom and retiring as an engineer at John Deere Harvester in 2002. Over his career, his contributions were many, including the design of the automated paint line, assisting with production startups in Mexico and China, and conducting plant tours at the Moline facility.   After retiring, he served as an adjunct professor at Muscatine Community College and St. Ambrose where he was an alumnus. Richard also volunteered at the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and was recognized with a Governor’s Award in 2015.

Dick was passionate about anything he chose to do. As an Eagle scout, he made elaborate full Native American headdress by hand including beadwork and feathers. Any hobby he pursued became his passion – from playing chess to golf to cross-country skiing to cooking.  He never went anywhere without a camera and recorded every event. He planned many camping and canoeing trips for his family, each one becoming a lasting memory. 

Dick was a long-time referee for local high school football and basketball games in Iowa and Illinois. A true John Deere man and Green Bay Packer fan, he bled green and gold. He also cheered on the STL Cardinals and Iowa Hawkeyes. He loved tending to his house and yard. He spent countless hours doing needlepoint, each project a true work of art.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents and infant sister, Mary. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sharon, daughters Julie (Daryl) Jahn, Jenny (John) Robnett, Mary Beth McWright and Maggie (Nick) Sanquist. Proud grandpa to 13, great grandpa to 16. Sister and brother-in-laws Mary (Ken) Engle and Greg (Connie) Lindsay as well as several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island. To leave condolences for the family, visit www.wheelanpressly.com.

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