Richard Lee Behrens

Richard Lee “DooDah” Behrens, 77, of Peru, entered eternal rest surrounded by his family at 8:23pm on Friday, March 19, 2021 at Dukes Memorial Hospital. He was born on December 11, 1943 to John Fredrick “Fritz” and Kathryne Evelyn (Zeigler) Behrens in Peoria Illinois.

Richard shared his childhood with 2 sisters and a brother, Betty Jane, Linda and Jerry. He went to Pleasant Hill school until the 8th grade.  He was drafted into the Army in May 1965, stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky and later shipped overseas to Germany. He was awarded a National Defense Service Medal: Sharp Shooter Rifle. He was honorably discharged on May 11, 1967.

On January 13, 1968, Richard married the love of his life, Sharon Elaine Eikenberry.  She preceded him in death on February 14, 2018.

Richard was hardworking, always providing for whatever the need was. He instilled great work ethics in all of his kids. “If you want something, you have to work for it” was his motto. Smart, caring and giving come to mind when his name is mentioned. He worked at many gas stations (actually pumping gas and checking oil for patrons) as well as working on cars.  He also worked at Stellite in Kokomo IN, and Caterpillar in Peoria Ill. For 24 years, he worked at Wilson’s Meat Packing Logansport, IN. He loved to tinker and build. He could often be found with a pencil he had sharpened with his pocket knife, a piece of paper and a ruler, plotting his dream home and scouring the realtor books for the perfect piece of land to put it on. In the garden, he would turn the earth, plant the seeds and nurture the crops until it provided a bounty which he shared with others via 5 gal buckets. Later in life, he was the “supervisor” to those who planted and nurtured.

Surviving are his children: a daughter Mel and husband Tony Anderson of Peru, 2 sons Michael Behrens and Partner Matt, of Flossmoor Ill, and Jeffrey Behrens and companion Christina, of Marshall Ill.  Also, 5 grandchildren: Brandy Peek companion Brandon, Elwood IN, Braxton Bowers and companion Chelsey, Rochester IN, and Adrienne Anderson, Logansport IN, Isabell, Sarah, Natalie Behrens, Marshal ILL.  Also, 9 great-grandchildren: Ella JoeAnn, Amya Lynn, Zayden Alexander, Hayden Raysel, Alyiah Marie, Christopher Michael, Ashlynn Ann, Kegan Lee, and Paislee Ann; as well as many, many bonus children who called him Papa DooDah as well and many nieces and nephews.  Also surviving are sister Linda Krider, Chilicothe ILL, sister in-law Carol, Behrens FL, and brother in-law Jim (Pam) Eikenberry, Rochester, IN.

He was preceded in death by his wife Sharon, sister Betty Jane Schlocher, brother Jerry Behrens, son Matthew Behrens, and grandson Mathew Anderson.

At a later date, we will have graveside services at IOOF Cemtery in Rochester, Indiana with military rights by Veterans Affairs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to American Heart Association, and/or a homeless shelter or animal shelter of your choice. Continue his legacy of giving and providing for the less fortunate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

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