Richard C. Axley, age 83, passed away on October 13, 2026 after a short illness. Dick was born on November 12, 1942, son of Filbert and Betty Axley. He was raised in Rockford, graduated from West High in 1960 and attained a BS Degree at Rockford College. Dick was employed at Sunstrand for 43 years as Mail Clerk, Mail Dispatcher. He advanced to Time Study Analyst, MRP Training, Line Management, Compliance Manager and Team Leader Projects. Dick authored three books, a watercolor artist whose works are on display at Mauh Nah Tee See, historian, hunter, fisherman and storyteller, inherited from his Aunt Dorothy. He always loved to acquire new knowledge. Dick married the love of his life, Karen (Honl) on November 13, 1965. They enjoyed golfing, traveling, entertaining and their dogs Toba and Abot.

His survivors include sister, Marcia (Chuck) Clabough; brother, Paul (Regina) Axley; sister in law, Julie O'Leary; brother in law Dennis Honl; Nieces, Makayla Mulholland, Sarah Aschenbach, Mandy Curtin, Peyton Honl; nephews, Charles, Drew and Peter Clabough, Paul Axley Jr; numerous great neices and nephews; and all his dear friends at Sienna and Mauh Nah Tee See. Predeceased by parents, wife Karen (June 12, 2023), Robin Honl and John O'Leary. 

A Memorial Mass will be on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Drive Rockford, IL 61109.