David “Dick” R. Ebbers, 89, of Morrison, IL, died Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Rock River Hospice & Home in Sterling, IL.
Dick was born August 21, 1936, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Alva J. and Corra D. (DeYoung Nyhof) Ebbers. He attended Fulton High School and graduated from Morrison High School in 1954. He continued his education at Central College in Pella, IA, and later attended IBA Heating and Cooling School in St. Louis, MO. On December 12, 1958, he married Esther Christine Bielema at Spring Valley Reformed Church in Fulton, IL. They shared their lives for over 64 years, before her passing on December 10, 2023. Dick began working at a young age, helping as a farm hand for Raymond and Kathryn Bielema during high school. He later worked alongside his father and brother, Rolland, with A. J. Ebbers and Sons, and completed an apprenticeship with Lloyd Knox. He owned and operated Ebbers Plumbing, with the support of his wife, Esther, where he took great pride in his work. A member of Emmanuel Church, Dick served in many roles over the years, including Elder and Sunday School Superintendent, and was active in adult Sunday School. He also served on the boards of Camp Manitoqua and Kings Camp. Dick and Esther cherished their time in a neighborhood couples Bible study, forming lasting friendships and deepening their faith. Dick had a great love for fishing, a pastime that brought him peace and quiet enjoyment throughout his life. He also cherished time spent on family vacations, especially the memories made together over the years. Many of those special moments came together at fishing resorts, where he could enjoy both his favorite pastime and the company of those he loved most. He was always willing to lend a hand, often helping his children with projects around their homes, and he took pride in maintaining his lawn and caring for his garden beds. More than anything, Dick found joy in spending time with his family and supporting them in any way he could.
Survivors include his children, Mark (Laura) Ebbers of Holland, MI, Marlene (Tim) Knox of Morrison, Jim (Lori) Ebbers of Clarkston, WA, and Doug (John) Ebbers of San Diego, CA; six grandchildren, Justin Knox, Joel (Kara) Ebbers, Anna (Matthew) Beck, Leah (Joshua) Mugford, Ryan (Janice) Ebbers, and Kaitlyn Ebbers; eight great-grandchildren, Braeden and Emma Ebbers, Laura, Andrew, and Benjamin Mugford, Cora, Oliver, and Gabrielle Beck; brother, Paul Ebbers of Cobbs Creek, VA; sisters-in-law, Ruth Venema of Fulton, and Doris Bielema of Morrison; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of almost 65 years, Esther; and one brother, Rolland Ebbers.
A Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Emmanuel Church in Morrison, IL.
The Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., at the church, with Rev. Luke Schouten officiating.
Interment will be at Grove Hill Cemetery in Morrison, IL.
Memorials have been established to Camp Manitoqua and Retreat Center in Frankfort, IL, and Emmanuel Missions.