Richard Padavich Jr.

Richard L. Padavich Jr., 72, of Bettendorf passed away on Friday, February 4, 2022 at Unity Point Trinity, Rock Island, Illinois.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 18th at the Rock Island National Cemetery.  Those wishing to attend should meet at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home in Bettendorf by 12:30 p.m. on Friday.  A celebration of life will be held afterwards from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Crawford Brew Works in Davenport.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House or to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Dick was born on October 6, 1949 in Davenport, the son of Richard and Betty (Thackery) Padavich Sr.  Following his high school graduation, he joined the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge in 1972. Dick was a 101st Airborne Ranger and later a Green Beret. He earned numerous medals and commendations, including a Silver and Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.  He was a drummer and played in several bands including playing drums with Boxcar Willie. He played slowpitch softball for years and also loved to bowl and golf in his later years. On October 22nd 1977, he was united in marriage to Nancy J. Beddow.  Dick worked as a quality representative at the Rock Island Arsenal until his retirement in 2001.

Those left to honor his memory are his son, Jason (Katie) Padavich of Long Grove, Iowa; two grandchildren, Cole Padavich of Davenport and Kayla Padavich of McCausland, Iowa; and his lifelong friend, Dave (Mary Jo) Slocum of Bettendorf.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy; and a brother, Robert.