Richard “Rich” D. Bengston, 80, of Coal Valley, IL, passed away Monday, November 2, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Trinity – Rock Island. Private family service will be held. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

Rich was born June 22, 1946, in Moline, IL, the son of Harold and Lucille (McCorkel) Bengston. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1968 to1970.

On June 27, of 1998, Rich married his beloved soulmate, Imogene Brimm, in Coal Valley. Their love was a cornerstone of his life; he cherished taking care of her, and together they cultivated beauty in their garden and joyfully decorated each Christmas season.

Rich had a passion for tinkering in his garage, where he found happiness in working with small engines. He was an avid fisherman and a devoted fan of NASCAR, often enjoying these pastimes with family.

Richard's greatest joy came from the time he spent with his grandchildren. He cherished creating unforgettable memories, often building go-karts and minibikes that he would gift to them.

Survivors include his children, Laura Clemmer and Beverly Bengston; grandchildren, Breanna (Jesse), John (Camilla), Austin, Cory (Summer), Tristan (Kayla), Jaydynn; and great-grandchildren, James, Jaxon, Nikolai, Noah, Katrina, and Augustus. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and many siblings.