It is with much sadness that the family of Richard E. Westbrook, fondly known as “Dick” to longtime friends & colleagues, announces his passing on Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018.
After a brave battle with Alzheimer’s and heart disease he peacefully passed away at the age of 87 years old at Harbor Chase Senior Living, in Plano, TX.
Richard will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 65 years, Elizabeth Ann (Betty), his children, Wendi, Allan and his daughter-in-law, Debbie. He will also be forever cherished by his 2 granddaughters, Ashley (Westbrook) Walton and Christina Westbrook and his new great granddaughter, Kennedy Nicole Walton.
Richard was preceded in death by his brothers Bob and Jack Westbrook.
His life will be remembered by those whose lives he touched after many years in broadcasting. He began his career in 1951 while attending Ohio University. He started as a reporter and News Director at WHOK Radio in Lancaster, Ohio. From there, he began a 35-year career in Decatur, Illinois. It started at WDZ Radio where he was the News Director then on to WAND-TV where he became the News Director and on-air personality. He retired from WAND-TV on June 5th, 1992.
Richard will always be cherished for being a loving husband and father. He was always quite the gentleman, he kept people smiling with his unique sense of humor, and was an exemplary professional throughout his career.
His wife Elizabeth still resides at Harbor Chase Senior Living in Plano, TX.
