Obituary of Eric Wayne Zehr

Eric “Rick” Wayne Zehr, 63, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at home with his family and friends by his side.

Rick was born on July 9, 1962, in Pontiac, IL, to Kendall and Irene Zehr. He married Jennifer Schieber Clyatt on March 4, 1994, and they resided in Peoria, IL.

Rick grew up living next door to his grandparents and working at the family hatchery and mill. His days were filled playing neighborhood baseball and football and going to the lake to water-ski and swim.

Rick received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Eastern Illinois University. He loved his alma mater and continued to support it for the rest of his life. He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Illinois State University.

Rick spent his professional career in healthcare, dedicating much of his life to addiction medicine. His most rewarding years were spent leading the Addiction Recovery Center at Proctor Hospital and most recently as part of Carle Health’s Trillium Place team. He was passionate about his work and gifted in his ability to be innovative in creating new programs and driving addiction treatment forward.

He was equally passionate about his family, music and sports. Rick was truly a people person. Whether it was a family member he had known his whole life or a stranger he had just met, Rick would listen, intent on making a connection. He treasured the time spent with family and friends attending concerts, hanging out at the cabin, and playing with the grandkids.

Rick is survived by his wife, Jenny; stepdaughter, Jessica (Jay) Bulaclac; treasured grandsons, Logan and Gavin; his parents; brother, Rodney (Patti) Zehr; nephew, Brandon (fiancée Katelyn Kovalaske) Zehr; his dear aunt, Sandra Roof; sister-in-law, Judy (Donal Hughes) Schieber; and beloved cousins and friends.

Private family services will be held. Memorial donations may be made to Pierce’s Promise in honor of Rick’s cherished buddy, Pierce Cordle.

Cremation Specialist of Illinois is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.CSofIL.com.

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