John Paul Rice, 83, of Aroma Park, IL, died at 4:50 p.m., Thursday, December 20, 2012 at Riverside Medical Center, Kankakee, IL

Mr. Rice was born on September 19, 1929 in Camargo, IL. He was the youngest son of the late David L. Rice Sr. and Hazel Marie (Miller) Rice.

John is survived by his beloved son, John Paul Rice II. He is also survived by his ex-wife and John's mother, Catherine Rice Conard and his sister, Mary Jean Barnes of Tuscola, IL. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded him in death were his parents and his two older brothers, James R. Rice and David "Bud" Rice, Jr.

He and his ex-wife Catherine managed two Arthur Murray dance studios, one in Kankakee, IL and the other in Virginia, MN. He then worked for Illinois Public Aid in Kankakee and then went to Phoenix, AZ, where he retired from Arizona Public Aid.

After retiring, John was an extra in several movies and television shows filmed in Chicago, including "Return to Me" and "Joshua".

He was an active member of the St. John United Church of Christ. John loved movies and theater, dancing, casinos and keeping in touch with his family and friends. He especially enjoyed cooking and was "famous" for his pineapple upside down cake and apple pie.

It was John's wishes to be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Manor in Momence, IL, where John II is a resident.