John Wayne Rice, 83, of Belvidere, Illinois passed away on December 1, 2025 surrounded by family.

Born April 4, 1942 in Hoxie, Arkansas to Roy and Etta Rice. John's family moved to Rockford when he was a child. After graduating from East High School, John enlisted in the US Navy where he served from 1962-1964. During his time in the military, John's mother put him in contact with a pretty young lady at her church. Shortly after John was discharged from the Navy, John married Linda Nelson on October 17, 1964. They were blessed with 61 years together. They enjoyed traveling to all 50 states, took 11 cruises and a 50th European Anniversary trip to Spain, France and Italy.

John worked at Devlieg-Sundstand, Boeing and retired from United Technologies in 2003. John enjoyed old cars and motorcycles, fishing, being on the water, listening to music and working in his yard. Above all he enjoyed family get-togethers and traveling. He was proud of the house he built and later in life enjoyed sharing "Navy stories." A loving husband and father, who found his grandchildren and his six little great grand-children extra special. John was happiest when surrounded by his family.

He was loved and will be missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Rice; his daughters, Dinah (Jim) Laseman and Terri (Tom) Fluehr; his siblings, Larry (Gloria) Rice and Judy (Dennis) Held; grandchildren, Cody(Erin) Laseman, Trey (Isabella) Fluehr, Jesse (Kristen) Laseman and Taylor Fluehr; Great grandchildren, Rylee, Everleigh, Avery, Jude, Emersyn and Cameron; several nephews and nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents; siblings Bea Lowe, LeRoy Rice, Patricia Johnson, Sandra Hargrove, Keith Rice, Vernon Rice and an infant brother.

The family is grateful for the comforting care given by the team at UW Health Swedish American Hospital. Special thanks to John's neighbor, Roy for his help during these recent years.

John's visitation will be Tuesday, December 9th between the hours 10-11:30 at Anderson Funeral Home,218 W Hurlbut Belvidere, IL. Funeral Service to follow beginning at 11:30 with burial to follow at Belvidere Cemetery.