Richard Earl "Arch" Archer

De Soto – Richard E. “Arch” Archer, 71, passed away on Monday, June 26, 2017.     Arch was born on August 24, 1945 in Springfield to Earl and Era Marie (Fentress) Archer.  Arch married Elizabeth Lou (Lutz) on August 9, 1969 in Belleville.  After 25 wonderful years of marriage approaching silver anniversary Elizabeth passed away in 1992.



   Arch proudly served his country in the reserve of the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged from the Air National Guard of IL on June 9, 1967. 



   He is survived by two sons Jeremy (Anna) Archer of Spring Grove, and Major William (Sarah) Archer, U.S. Army of Fairbanks, AK; a brother, David Archer of Chatham; two grandchildren Cody and Jace Archer of Spring Grove; and two beloved cousins. 



   He is preceded in death by his parents and wife Elizabeth Lou. 



   Arch proudly started the Southern Illinois Great Cardboard Boat Regatta in 1974.  This past year it celebrated its 44th Anniversary.  This fun, family–friendly event continues to draw aspiring boat builders and spectators to Southern Illinois each spring to race cardboard creations in friendly competition to watch who sinks them first.  Arch loved to bring joy to people and enjoyed camping as a hobby and traveling all over the majestically scenic United States of America. 



   Arch was incredibly talented and creative working as an assistant professor at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale in the Design Department for over 30 years.     



   A Memorial Service for Arch will be at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, July 1, 2017 at the Meredith Funeral Home, Carbondale.  A time for visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. 

  

   Memorials for Arch are the preferred form of remembrance and can be made to Shawnee Christian Nursing Home and will be accepted at the funeral home. 

  

  If you would like to share a story or memory of Arch, please visit, www.meredithfh.com.