Richard "Arnie" Messer

Richard  “Arnie”  Messer, 88, of Byron died Thursday August 25, 2022 in Swedish-American Hospital, Rockford. He was born October 1, 1933 the son of Kenneth and Mildred (Pettinger) Messer. He married Betty Houpt in Mt. Morris, IL on June 1, 1962.

Arnie worked in the printing industry for Kable Printing, Rockford Morning Star Newspaper, and CCS in Oregon. He enjoyed camping and playing cards and attended many high school sporting events.

Arnie is survived by his wife Betty, son, Ron (Paul Williams) Messer of McKinney, TX, daughter-in-law, Brandie Messer, grandchildren, Brett (Emily Lund) Messer and Devan (Seth) Kuss all of Stillman Valley, one great grandbaby due any day, and sister, Linda (Clarence) Bechtold of Mt. Morris and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by 2 sons, Kevin and Steven and 8 brothers, Gene, Glenn, Bill, Darrell, Charles, Jim, Doug, and Tom.

Visitation will be held Sunday August 28, 2022 at Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 506 W. Merchant. St., Byron. beginning at 2:00 PM and concluding with the funeral service at 4:00 PM with Rev. Randy Snider officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Morris on Monday at 11:00 AM. Memorials may be directed to Village of Progress Special Olympics, Oregon, IL.