Richard Flanagan

Richard "Dick" Flanagan, 70, of Caledonia, Illinois, passed away, Saturday, April 19, 2014, at home in the loving embrace of his family and friends, as he had wished. He was born on February 3, 1944, to the loving parents of Michael and Magdalen (Holland) Flanagan, in Argyle, Wisconsin. He graduated from Argyle High School in 1962. He received a degree in 1966 from UW Platteville with a double major in Business and Economics. While at Platteville, he met his best friend and soulmate, Nancy Wilcox. They were married on June 8, 1968 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Platteville. Rich was a loyal employee at Rockford Power Train for many years. Upon retirement, he was employed part time by Industrial Electronic Components.
Dick had multiple lifelong interests in refurbishing antique tractors and classic cars, which he exhibited, winning numerous awards and trophies. He also pursued a hobby of competitive trap shooting, competing at local, regional and national competitions, again winning many awards and trophies. Dick was very proud when he earned his 25th consecutive award from the Grand American Association. Antiquing, flea markets, swap meets and auctions led him to a new passion of refurbishing various antique gas and oil cans into unique collections known as "Big D's Cans."
Rich was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church and a 3rd degree member of Knights of Columbus St. Bridget Council 4330. He was a charter member of Illinois Packer Backers, a Green Bay Packer stockholder and a member of the Harley Davidson Group, Rock River Chapter.
Dick was a special friend to everyone he met. His quick wit, handshake and the twinkle in his eyes made everyone feel special. Dick was very proud of his Irish heritage. He courageously battled cancer with his faith, humor and positive attitude, which became an inspiration to his doctors, nurses, family and friends.
The Flanagan family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Joshua Lang at UW Carbone Cancer Center, Dr. Michael Kouimelis, OSF Home Care Services and Dick's hospice nurses, especially Jennifer "OPJ," Michelle and Mindy.
Rich is survived by his loving wife and caregiver, Nancy, affectionately known as "Mama Bear" during his final journey. He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ann (Robert) Bredeson, as well as many family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, and his father and mother-in-law, LaVern and Ardythe (Peat) Wilcox.
Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2014, at St. Bridget Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 South Mulford Road and will continue from 9:30 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. at the church on Friday. Burial in Calvary Cemetery, Argyle, Wisconsin on Saturday, April 26, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Barbara Olson Center of Hope or OSF Hospice Services. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com. "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4: 7