Richard "Dick" Charles Richards, 93, of Winnebago, Illinois passed away on September 1, 2026. Born on May 6, 1933, in Trout Creek, Michigan, he was the son of Joseph and Vernice (Knivila) Richards. His early youth was spent in Trout Creek in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan before moving to Detroit.

Dick graduated from Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Michigan, Class of 1951, and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Wayne State University in 1960. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War attaining the rank of Corporal while serving with the 704th Tank Battalion at Fort Hood, Texas.

Dick was united in marriage to Joan M. Prasatek on January 25, 1958. They shared many years together until her passing in 1997. He later found love and companionship again and was united in marriage to Donna (Schaefer) Bennett on March 6, 1998, in Elgin, Illinois.

Dick built a long and accomplished career with the United States federal government, Department of Labor, ultimately serving as District Director of the Wage and Hour Division, a position from which he retired.

While Dick had much to be proud of throughout his life, it was the people, pastimes, and simple routines he loved that made him who he was. He was an avid golfer and sports fan and enjoyed sharing his love of baseball and basketball with younger generations, coaching at both the elementary and high school levels. He was also a car enthusiast and especially proud of his 1987 Corvette convertible. As a member of the Corvette Club, he enjoyed the camaraderie that came along with owning a car that was undoubtedly one of his favorites.

Dick was witty, loved a good pun, and always seemed to have a joke or story ready to share. He loved reminiscing about his past and could keep a conversation going with stories collected over more than nine decades of a life well lived. He kept up with current events and the weather and was always happy to make sure those around him were up to date, too.

He appreciated life's familiar pleasures: a good Manhattan, watching sports, a round of golf, following the news, and especially his Saturday morning breakfasts with friends. Those regular gatherings and the friendships behind them meant a great deal to him. He was especially fond of his time spent with neighbors and good friends, Steve and Joanne Pozzi.

Above all else, Dick loved his family. His children, grandchildren and Donna's family were a tremendous source of pride and joy, and he treasured being part of their lives. His family continues to grow, with even more little ones on the way, including a set of twin great-grandchildren expected in October and another step-great-grandchild due in September.

Dick is survived by his wife, Donna Richards; children, Karen (Mike) Hebberger, Linda (Les) Thierolf, and Bruce (Jenn) Richards; stepchildren, Debbie (David) McNutt, Tim (Nikki) Bennett, and David (Annette) Bennett; grandchildren, Tim (Hannah) Hebberger, Katie Thierolf, Shelby Thierolf, Lance Richards, Stephanie (David) Robinson, and Kristin Richards; step-grandchildren, Brandon (Saleema) McNutt, Kaitlynne (Joe) Range, Garrett (Cami) McNutt, Abby Bennett, McKenna (Ross) Dray, Emberlynn Bennett, Devon Bennett, and Jade (Noah) Rydberg; step-great-grandchildren, Logan McNutt, Riley McNutt; cousins, Bob Knivila, Steve Knivila, and Sue Knivila; special friends and neighbors, Steve and Joanne Pozzi; and family dog, Dutchess. Preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Joan (Prasatek) Richards; daughter, Gail V. Richards; half-brother, Michael Scanlon and cousin, Allen Knivila.

A Celebration of Life will held be on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 5:30 pm at the Westlake Village Club House, 3677 West Lake Village Drive, Winnebago, Illinois 61088. In honor of his love of sports, wear you favorite team colors. Join us to share food, fellowship and memories of Dick. Livestream available. Check back for link information.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dick's honor to Serenity Hospice & Home, PO Box 462, Oregon, IL 61061 or donate online at https://serenityhospiceandhome.app.neoncrm.com/forms/default-donation-form-individual. A donation box will also be available at the Celebration of Life ceremony.

Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family, share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.