Richard Paul Sidwell, 70, of Griggsville passed away on Sunday, June 26 at 3:16 am at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois. He was surrounded by many close family members, just as he was his whole life. He was blessed beyond measure with a large family who all thought the world of him. He was proceeded in death by his father, Marvin Sidwell and two sons, Bradley Wayne Sidwell and Joseph “Joe” Brent Sidwell. Richard was born on January 26, 1952, in Pittsfield, IL to Marvin Sidwell and Viola Waite Sidwell Benson. Richard was a graduate of Pittsfield High School and attended John Wood Community College and the University of Illinois. He married LuAnna Johnson Sidwell on February 12, 1970. For the majority of his life, he resided in Maysville where he and LuAnna raised their four sons together. Richard had dreams of farming. For some time, he raised bottled calves, pigs, goats while maintaining a full-time job to keep the farm afloat. More importantly, he taught his boys many life skills and lessons—though some may have been learned the hard way as farm work was never an easy task. In addition to farming, Richard held many other jobs throughout his life. He worked as a licensed insurance agent, master plumber, plumbing contractor, and septic tank plumber. He also worked as a warehouse controller, furniture store owner and apartment owner. Later on, he worked as a licensed real estate broker until he retired in 2007. This job had always been his favorite. He loved being involved with the community in one form or another. Family members always turned to him for advice as he had worn so many hats throughout his lifetime. After retiring, he still kept busy. For a while, Richard and LuAnna raised llamas together. This was a great pastime. He was interested in antiques, attending auctions and travel when given the opportunity. His biggest enjoyment was spending time in his garage tinkering on projects. He was an inventor and a problem solver in the highest regard. It was always amazing to see what he could come up with if a problem arose, or to see what he was able to create if something needed to be made in order to make a job easier. He especially enjoyed construction projects, such as rebuilt boats, cars, trucks, campers, motor homes, and more recently, a three-wheel motor bike. He was also an exceptional craftsman and loved helping his sons out on projects in their own homes when he had the opportunity—even if at times this meant he just needed to be the supervisor. The simple pleasures in life brought him great joy. He loves having dinners with family, those close to him stopping by for a chat, and hanging out with his grandkids and showing them how to do a new task in his garage. In his earlier years he played volleyball, badminton, golf, and croquet with the family. Family card nights were always a staple event in the Sidwell home. Richard always found ways to liven up family events too- such as the mouse trap game at Christmas time that I am sure no one will ever forget. Richard had the ability to find happiness in daily activities, even when life got harder. He had a wonderful spirit, listening ear, and encouragement that made you feel like you could do whatever it was you were unsure if you could do. Richard was an active member of the Church of Christ in Barry. He is survived by his wife, LuAnna Sidwell and three sons, Tony William (Patricia) Sidwell of Pittsfield, Brice Michael (Tawnya) Sidwell of Liberty, and Jason Scott (Carla) Sidwell of Griggsville; mother, Viola Waite Sidwell Benson; ten grandchildren, Joshua (Amber), Alex (Katie), Samantha (Chris), Michael, Karissa (Zach), Erica, Matthew (Madisyn), Lucas, Logan and Audrie; five great grandchildren, Bradley, Kinsley, Oliver, Danicka, Mavis; and one brother, John (Aa) Sidwell of Mefford Oregon; many nieces and nephews and many who were like family to him. His legacy will continue to be honored. A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 1, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at the Hinman Cemetery. There will be no visitation, however family and friends are more than welcome to attend the graveside service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hinman Cemetery or the Barry Church of Christ. Airsman-Hires Funeral Home in Griggsville is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left online at www.airsman-hires.com.