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RICHARD G. Lt. Col. (Ret.) USAF Richard G. (Dick) Illing, 89, a member of "The Greatest Generation" passed away in Albuquerque on September 10, 2007 after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. He went peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 1, 1918 in Flushing , NY to Richard and Elieze C. Illing. His early interest in aviation was fueled by a plane ride at the now La Guardia airport at age 10. Richard moved to Lake Mahopac, NY where his stepfather, Dr. James L. New and mother encouraged his education. At NY University he was president of his fraternity Phi Gamma Delta and upon graduation was designated highest ranking Honor Graduate of the ROTC Engineer Battalion. He was commissioned into the Army Air Corp where he was Squadron Engineering Officer of the 49th Fighter Pursuit Group, 8th Squadron in Australia and New Guinea receiving the Legion of Merit. Upon his return to the U.S. he received his engineering graduate degree from The University of Michigan. Richard worked on many projects for the USAF, Western Development Division, Air Force Special Weapons, Dept. of Defense and the Atomic Energy Commission. His military service spanned 20 years and retired as a Lt. Col. He then worked as an aeronautical engineer for Sandia National Laboratories and retired after 24 years of service. service was a loving and supporting father, husband, and friend. He always used compromise and compassion to make things work. As an active nature and wildlife conservationist his photography and writing of the Southwest will always be cherished. He resided for over 60 years at the base of his beloved Sandia Mountain. His sense of humor will always be remembered in his "Coyote Call" to gather us, whether it be in the Taos Gorge or a local mall! Dad, you were the pillar of strength in our lives. You'll always be our hero! Until we meet again may you share the Father's eternal life of understanding and joy in heaven and soar with eagles in the Wild Blue Yonder! Richard is survived by Mary A. Illing his loving wife of 31 years; daughters, Layne N. Hedrick and husband, Robert, Lawne W. Callan and husband, Robert; son, Ty C. Illing; grandchildren, Robert Callan III, James LeGrande Callan, Cheyenne and Taylor Illing; stepchildren, Theresa (Terry) M. Harper and husband, Bob, Edward P. Snyder and Christian P. Snyder. He was preceded in death by his brilliant daughter, Lynne Reid Illing and his first wife, Geraldine Cornell Illing. We would like to thank Anna Kaseman Presbyterian Hospice for all their kindness and care, especially Dr. Lydia Lawson, Cid Jaso, Janis Kelton, Allison Martin, Virginia Nolan, Brenda Sandburg, Mary Trudell and Margaret Montoya. A Funeral Mass will be held on September 15, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of the Risen Savior, 7701 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Cremation has taken place as were his wishes. A private Service with Military Honors will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In memory of Richard, contributions may be made to Prostate Cancer Research, The Sierra Club or a charity of one's choice. Arrangements by Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th St. NW, ABQ, NM 87107, 505-343-8008
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