Richard "Rick" Ellison, 74, of Springfield, Missouri, passed on to his heavenly home Monday, December 23, 2024, at Mercy Hospital.

Rick was born February 18, 1950, in Springfield to Ansel and Dorothy Laverne. He graduated from Glendale High School and earned his bachelor's degree from Southwest Missouri State University (now Missouri State University).

After graduation, Rick began work at then-St. John's Hospital, today known as Mercy Hospital. He started working in the Radiology department and quickly fell in love with a life of service in healthcare. He dedicated his life's work in radiology to support the patients, physicians and especially his co-workers and employees. He taught and mentored many young professionals in radiology. He was well-known and respected throughout Mercy Hospital for his gentle kindness, respect, and devotion to service.

At home, Rick was a life-long member of Second Baptist Church. He was a man of great faith who followed the teachings of Jesus Christ. Rick also enjoyed woodworking, even handcrafting a baby crib for one of his employee's first child. He also loved a good garage sale, always on the lookout for good bargain that he could then donate to others in need.

Rick is survived by his brother, Ron, and his wife, Laurie, Overland Park, KS; nephew, Jeff and his wife, Kim, Jefferson City; niece, Samantha and her husband, Matt, and their children, Rosalia and Eleanor of Overland Park; nephew, Bo and his wife, Beth and their son, Andrew of Overland Park. He is preceded in death by his father and mother.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Thursday., January. 9, in the Chapel at Klingner-Cope Funeral Home, 4500 South Lone Pine, Springfield. A memorial service will follow at 12:00 pm. Burial will be in Rivermonte Memorial Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Grand Oak Mission Center, 2854 West Grand St., Springfield 65802.

The family would like to thank Rick's friends and co-workers who loved and appreciated Rick as we did. A special thanks also to Claralee Moore who embodied love in action during Rick's final months.