You were a phenomenal grandpa. I love you so incredibly much. Thank you for loving grandma with all your heart and soul. Teaching my daddy to love my mom with just as much love. I will cherish you in my heart forever.
John Richard "Dick" Preller
March 31, 1938 ~ December 23, 2025
John Richard “Dick” Preller was born March 31, 1938 in Kane County, Illinois. He passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the age of 87.
Dick graduated from Dundee High School and attended Vander Cook College of Music.
He served in the National Guard for 2 years and 4 months and then transferred to the United States Air Force for 4 years and 9 months. In the Air Force he was an Air Policeman on the K-9 unit.
Upon leaving the Air Force, he went to work at Purtain Bennett in Kansas City, MO until 1973 when he moved to Ottawa, KS to become a farmer with his wife.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John A. and Norma J. Preller; brother, Robert E. Preller.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce E. Preller of the home; sons, Richard C. Preller of Wichita, Curtis E. Preller of Brownsburg, IN; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.
No services are scheduled.
A memorial has been established with Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st St., Ste. 800, Miami, FL 33131.
Arrangements in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in John Richard "Dick" Preller 's name.
Parkinson's Foundation
200 SE 1st St., Ste. 800
Miami,
FL
33131
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
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I’m going to miss your smile, laugh and wonderful sense of humor. You were just like my Dad, so full of life’s experiences and yet so very kind and loving. You raised two amazing boys into men, your oldest providing me and our children such a wonderful life and always with love. You showed Mom so much love , it spread all over into not only our lives, but your grandchildren and great grandchildren. We all knew and felt your unconditional love. -
This man lit up a room with his charm, wit, and magnanimous personality. He was an incredible role model and I couldn’t have asked for a better grandpa. I will miss him sorely and hope to live up to his example.
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You were the definition of charm. Every room was better with you in it. I am grateful for the stories you shared with me, the sprinklings from a life well lived — and well loved. Thank you for jokes, for karaoke, for still making grandma blush like she did as a young lady, and for reminding me that life is the constant of facing the unknown. Thank you for teaching me how to love dogs, REALLY love them, and appreciate the little things like a walk through nature with an animal. I hope you are at rest, enjoying a day in the sun and the sound of brass.
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