Memorial-Ride-for-RVC-Alumnus-Sgt-Kevin-Rice-Returns-to-Campus.php

Memorial Ride for RVC Alumnus Sgt. Kevin Rice Returns to Campus

• Community
• 08/11/2025

On Saturday, August 2, the memorial bicycle ride in honor of the late Sgt. Kevin Rice, a Rock Valley College Distinguished Alumnus Hall of Fame inductee, included a stop at RVC’s main campus.

Among the riders, RVC President Dr. Howard Spearman joined supporters, law enforcement officers, and family members in remembering and celebrating Rice’s life.

This annual ride also pays tribute to the permanent Kevin Rice Memorial on RVC’s main campus near the Student Center, as well as the Kevin Rice Memorial Scholarship. These memorials honor Sgt. Rice’s enduring legacy as a student, officer, and community servant.

Sgt. Kevin Rice was a Rockford Police detective who served the department for 14 years, including time with the Gang Unit. He was tragically killed in the line of duty on August 3, 2001, after pulling over two individuals during a routine stop. Sgt. Rice was a devoted father of three, a loving husband, and an inspiration to many, including his son Stanley, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a police officer.

This year’s ride spanned 157 miles from Wisconsin to Rockford, with the final 15.7 miles representing Kevin’s badge number. The stop at Rock Valley College included bicycle riders, a police escort, and several Rockford Police officers. Elmer Rice, Kevin’s brother, continues to serve as the driving force behind the memorial ride and the Kevin Rice Memorial Scholarship at RVC. The foundation scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in criminal justice, ensuring that Kevin’s legacy continues to make an impact.

This year, Kevin’s brother Elmer wanted to ride the final 15.7 miles of the journey with his friend Troy Alton. Troy rode the entire 157 miles beginning his solo ride in Wisconsin and meeting Elmer and friends in Rockford for the final 15.7 miles. “I wanted this final portion to be a special tribute, so I mapped out a route that included meaningful stops connected to Kevin’s legacy: the 9/11 Memorial, RVC’s Wall of Fame and memorial bench, Kevin’s headstone at the cemetery, and the Kevin D. Rice Memorial Playground,” said Elmer. “I shared my plan with a few family members and friends—and the response was incredible.”

Dr. Spearman, who participated in the ride, described the memorial and scholarship as a way to honor an RVC alumnus who exemplified courage and service. “It’s more than just a ride,” he said. “It’s a celebration of a life that continues to impact others in the most meaningful way.”

Elmer reflected on the ride and the support they received along the way. “I’m deeply thankful that approximately 40 riders, including family, friends, and even strangers, joined us for the ride. Dr. Spearman, RVC President, rode with us the entire way, while Brittany Freiberg, RVC Chief Development Officer, and her family generously provided water and snacks and ensured the Wall of Fame building was open. We were fortunate to have police escort us in squad cars as we visited these sites throughout Rockford that honor Kevin and bear his name. Family and friends who did not ride stood by with their signs and support.”

To contribute to the Kevin Rice Memorial Scholarship, visit Rock Valley College Foundation's donation page.