Richard "Dick" Lee Witherby

August 11, 1933 - February 28, 2013

“Racer” Richard “Dick” Lee Witherby, 79, of Rockford passed away on Thursday, February 28, 2013 after a long struggle. Born August 11, 1933, son of Kenneth and Myrtle (Millard) Witherby. Dick is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Cindy (John) Bacher, Ora (P.J.) Andrew, Rick (Judy) Witherby, Ron (Julie) Witherby; special cousin, Randy (Charlotte) Todd; eight grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Dick was employed as a mechanic at Rockford Blacktop, GMC and was also self-employed. He was an avid drag racer throughout the Midwest and was known to be the first drag racer to make the first run down the Byron Dragway. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the Great Lakes Dragway in 2011. He also loved Ham radio and spent many hours talking to others around the world. (N9CCC) Preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Kasey and his favorite Bassett Hound Maggie. Dick’s family extends a special thanks to the 2 South Staff at Amberwood Care Centre for their loving care. He sure gave them a run for their money! A Memorial Visitation will be Monday, March 4, 2013 from 5 -7 p.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 South Alpine Rd. Rockford – At Colonial Village. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.graceFH.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.