Willard Dane Rice, 80, of Mishawaka, passed away on November 20, 2021.

Dane was born in Mishawaka to Harvey and Mabel Rice on June 5, 1941. He was a member of the first graduating class of Penn High School in Mishawaka. He married Kathryn Eggers, whom he adored, on June 3, 1961, at Liberty Drive Missionary Church in Mishawaka. He worked in the maintenance department for School City of Mishawaka for 26 years. He proudly served in the US Army as a weapons specialist. He was active in his church and Bible Study Fellowship, BSF. Dane enjoyed church league softball, working with his hands, helping others, and playing with his grandchildren.

Dane was known for always being ready to lend a helping hand, providing support for others both physically and financially. He made it his mission to help those around him. Asking for help was never a strong point, but later in life he realized he could provide joy to others by allowing them to return the favors he so generously bestowed. Even though he physically could not keep up doing what he once could, he provided the advice and experience to those privileged enough to work with him.

Dane is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Mabel, a brother, Jim Rice, twin sisters Mary Rice and Betty Hanks, brother-in-law Wendell Hanks, sister-in-law Donna Rice, Brother-in-law Eldon Duerksen and Sister-in-law Carolyn Duerksen.

Dane is survived by his wife Kathryn Rice, and children Danea (Steven) Saffell of Mishawaka, and Billy (Laura) Rice of Mishawaka. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Caleb (Celeste), Kearstin (Jarron), Brandon, Paige, Chloe, and Casey. He also has a single great grandchild, Calvin.  Also surviving are a twin brother, Dean (Jean) Rice, a brother Joe Rice, Brother-in-law Darrell Eggers and multiple nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 11am till 1pm on Monday November 29, 2021, at Palmer Funeral Home, Bubb Chapel on Main Street in Mishawaka.  A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following visitation at 1pm on Monday November 29, 2021, at Palmer Funeral home, Bubb Chapel on Main Street in Mishawaka. A private burial will follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to The Gideons International, “Send the Word” Project, Po Box 97251, Washington DC 20090-7251 or DayStar, “Loving the Land” project, Po Box 610546, Dallas, TX 75261-0546.

Palmer Funeral Homes - Bubb Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.