1927 - 2024
Richard H. "Dike" Behler, 97, of Carmi, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Wabash Senior Living and Rehab, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 22, 1927, in Carmi, to Ben J. and Hattie Victoria (Puckett) Behler. On September 14, 1949, Dike married the love of his life, Jewell Harvey, who preceded him in death on May 25, 2014.
Dike was deeply passionate about joining the World War II effort. At just 17 years old, he eagerly awaited his high school graduation before enlisting in the United States Navy. His determination to serve his country led him to join the Naval Construction Battalion, also known as the Sea Bees. Dike proudly served with the Navy Sea Bees during the final stages of the war, contributing to the war effort with the dedication and pride that defined his character. He was the last surviving WWII Veteran in White County, Illinois.
After returning home, Dike worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier, retiring after 35 years of dedicated service. A man of unwavering faith, Dike was a lifelong member of Emmanuel Church. He was also a loyal supporter of Carmi White County sports.
One of Dike’s greatest passions in life was his constant love for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. His fandom began at a young age, when he attended his first game in 1934 and remained a central part of his life until his final days. His love for the Cardinals was more than just a pastime; it was a lifelong devotion that connected him to the team and to the many fans he befriended along the way.
For 20 years, Dike gave his time and energy to coaching Little League baseball, touching the lives of many young athletes in the Carmi community. Above all, his greatest joy was his family, and he took immense pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.
Dike is survived by his daughter, Melissa V. (Camille Gemayel) Simpson of Arlington, VA; three grandchildren, Zayne Richard (Carlee) Simpson, Talon Reid (Michelle) Simpson, and Lexie Jewell (Dexter) Pyfrom; and nine great-grandchildren: Chloe, Jaxson, Viggo, Vailen, Leelyn, Ellisie, Vohen, Talon Jr., and Lachlan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as close friends, Mark and Joe Burns.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jewell, three children: Richard Dyke Behler, Stanley Dike Behler, and Linda Rose Behler; a great-granddaughter, Ivy Pyfrom; and five siblings: Mary Alice Brashier, Helen Matsel, Jeanette Smith, Rosenell Questell, and Ben Joe Behler.
Funeral services for Richard H. "Dike" Behler will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi. Burial with full Military Honors by the Carmi VFW and American Legion will immediately follow the service at North Maple Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be held on the evening of Thursday, December 12, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi
The family requests no flowers and that memorial donations be made in Dike's memory to the Carmi White County High School Booster Club or the Carmi Recreational Summer League to support youth sports in the Carmi community. Donations will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home, 609 W. Main St., Carmi, IL 62821.
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