78, of Macomb
Richard D. Fowler, 78, of Macomb, Illinois, passed away at 9:30 PM Monday September 29, 2025 at his sons’ residence.
He was born January 20, 1947 in Pittsfield, Illinois to George and Mildred (Oakman) Fowler; he married Joyce Umphryes on December 2, 1967. She survives.
Also surviving are his children, Jodie (Chuck) Young of Loraine, Illinois and James (Anna) Fowler of Macomb, Illinois; two brothers, Don Flower of Colchester, Illinois, Ted Fowler of Wichita, Kansas; grandchildren Dakota, Tyler, and Remington Young of Loraine, Illinois and Jordan Fowler of Macomb, Illinois; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his favorite dog Patches. Richard worked for Waste Management for 45 years. He was known as the singing garbage man. His voice brought smiles to the faces of those who heard him—he truly earned his nickname as you could sound like anyone from Garth Brooks to Willie Nelson In his 40s, he shared his love of music more widely, forming bands like Old Friends Band and Midwest Express. Whether playing for a crowd or family at home, he poured his heart into every note.
