Richard Kays, 51, from Belvidere, Illinois, died peacefully April 12, 2018, at his home. He was born to Kenneth and Sandra (Engelsen) Kays on May 18, 1966 in Belvidere. Richard married love of his life, Leah Whisenant June 20, 1987 in Belvidere. Richard graduated from Belvidere High School and was an auto mechanic.

He enjoyed fishing, working on cars, drag races, dirt bikes, ATV's and spending time with family and friends at the cabin.

Richard is survived by his wife, Leah; his son, Wade; mother, Sandra (Steve Sitrick) ; brother, Dennis (Debbie) Kays; paternal grandmother, Bernietta Kays; mother and father in-law, Bill (Cindy) Whisenant; brother in- law, Billy (Becky) Whisenant; nieces and nephews; a great nephew; and many special friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, grandfathers and maternal grandmother.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 16, 2018 at Anderson Funeral and CremationServices, 218 W. Hurlbut Avenue, Belvidere, IL.  Memorial gathering will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service, Monday April 16 at the funeral home. Randy Rutledge from Hillsdale United Methodist Church will officiate. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, Heartland Hospice or Swedish American Foundation. I would also like to thank his nurse Marianne at Heartland.