Ricky Lee Aurand, 74, of Loran, IL passed away early Thursday, April 11th, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Rick was born October 1st, 1949, and was raised in Nora, IL. He is the son of Laverne Aurand and Dorothy Kubatzke. On August 19, 2000, he married Karen Voss. Together they celebrated 23 years of marriage. Rick worked for Kelly Springfield for 30 years when he retired to enjoy his family, his dogs, the river property and close friends that were made during the time there, playing cards, fishing, metal work and his very loved John Deere tractor! He was a proud union steward and lifetime Harley member. Within the last few years, Rick gave his heart to God and was actively involved in Simply Free Church. He couldn't wait for church on Sundays, even if it meant leaving the river early. On August 8th, 2023, he and his wife Karen, chose to be baptized and were on fire to talk about God and his church. If you find a Simply Free Church pen somewhere, Rick most likely was trying to reach you. He was always very thankful for Glenn and Kent leading him to Jesus.

He is survived by his loving wife Karen; son Tim (Colleen) Aurand of Kent, IL; daughters Chris (Rob) Knoup and Tammy (Joe) Stephan both of Pearl City; precious dogs Haley and Chee Chee; sister-inlaws Connie (JR) Drane, Micki (Scott) Sturtevant, Linda (Larry) Johnson all of Pearl City; brother-inlaws Merlyn (Sheri) Voss, Mel (Jan) Voss both of Pearl City; nine grandchildren Adam (Meridian)
Long, Cassie (Josh) Garnhart, Andrew Long, Trey Aurand, Kade Knoup, Brinkley Knoup, Zac (Cassy) Stephan, Kassidy (Greg) Tessendorf and Madyson Stephan; 10 great-grandchildren. Several cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, his in-laws Kenneth and Iola Voss, brothers Gerald (Punch) Aurand and Dennis Aurand, infant stepdaughter Ashley, precious dog Tasha and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Hospice, the FHN ER staff and Simply Free Church.
They made his last days brighter and more comfortable.

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, May 25th, 2024, at Simply Free Church (25460 Locust Rd. Lanark, IL) at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Glenn Scott officiating. Cremation rites Accorded.

Breaker 1-9, Rickochet, Signing Off!