Rick Wilhite

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at Harrisburg Christian Church (201 E. Sexton Street, Harrisburg, MO 65256), with the funeral service immediately following. Rick would’ve wanted you to be comfortable, so please wear your jeans and casual clothes.

Born to William F. and Ruth (Mueller) Wilhite on September 22, 1956 in Fayette; Rick spent his whole life in Harrisburg. He always knew the importance of family. Growing up with two sisters, he was tough and protective, but also loved his family and friends in a big way. The greatest love of his life, however, was Kathy Neal, who became his wife on June 27, 1980 after a chance meeting and a $1000 bet. From this union were born two children: Lindsey and Bubba. Rick was a hands-on dad: coaching his kids’ sports teams, taking them hunting and fishing, and always cheering them on in their pursuits. When it came time for grandchildren, “Pappy” was just a big kid, playing and being silly right along with his precious grandbabies. He truly lived for his family.

Rick’s co-workers at Ameren were his extended family. He was well known as the go-to backhoe operator and could be counted on to look out for his crew. If there was a job nobody wanted to do, Rick would handle it – he was fearless.

Rick’s final days were spent at The Lodge in Fayette, where he was loved, doted on and treated like family. The Wilhite family wishes to express their gratitude to every single staff member at The Lodge.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Wilhite; son, Bubba (Brittney) Wilhite; daughter, Lindsey Wilhite; cherished grandchildren, Wyatt Wilhite, Lilly Wilhite and Justice Schouten; sisters, Reggie Wilhite and Rhonda (Brent) Voorheis; brother-in-law, John (DJ) Neal; several nieces and nephews, along with a host of friends. In addition to his parents, Rick was preceded in death by his mother- and father-in-law, Ruby and Charlie Neal.