Jack Rye
Wood River |
Jack Dale Rye, 92, after a life well lived, passed away April 25, 2024 at LaBella of Alton.
Born March 23, 1932 in East Alton, he was the son of Frank and Rachel Ambrosia (Tilley) Rye.
Jack began his career in food service as the Chef at the Stratford Hotel in Alton. After attending The Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, CT, he went on to manage food operation of colleges and hospitals across the country.
His real love was construction. He owned and operated "R & R Construction" after retirement in Tennessee where he and his wife resided for several years before returning to Wood River at the age of 85, still building decks.
On February 25, 1951 in Wood River, he married Stella Elaine Humphress.
Surviving in addition to his wife of 73 years are a daughter, Susan (John) Mendenhall; son, Scott (Darlene) Rye; eight grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; two sisters, Darlene Miller, Nancy (Bill) Tierney; several nieces and nephews, daughter-in-law, Kay Rye; and dear friend, George Nicholson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven D. Rye in 2023; sister, Virginia Mitchell; brother, Frank Rye; and brother-in-law, Jay Miller.
A sincere "Thank You" is extended to all the caretakers that cared for him at LaBella of Alton and his roommate, Irvin Wefenstette.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
