Richard “Dick” Reilly
Obituary's Biography:
Richard P. (Dick) Reilly, age 77, a resident of Volo, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on September 24, 2024 at Lake Forest Hospital. Dick was born on August 27, 1947 in Bloomington, IL to Thomas F. and Lorraine (nee Froehlke) Reilly.
Dick was the beloved husband of Joyce M (nee Gwozdz) Reilly for 48 years and the beloved father of Thomas J. Reilly of Wauconda. He is also survived by his siblings, Mary (Jerome) Bastien of Wauconda, Kathleen of Wauconda, and Michael (Judy) of Fox River Grove. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Dick attended Transfiguration Catholic school and Wauconda High School. He was a graduate of St.Mary’s College in Winona, MN and earned a master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
He worked as an environmental scientist for the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission and for Hey and Associates.
In his lifetime, he spent countless hours swimming, fishing, waterskiing, ice boating , skating, and life guarding on Bang’s Lake in Wauconda where his family owned and operated Phil’s Beach.
Dick loved the outdoors and the native landscapes of Illinois, Wisconsin and Minnesota. He enjoyed fishing, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking, running and cross country skiing. He was a loyal Wisconsin Badgers football fan. He quietly gave back to the places he loved by planting native trees and prairie plants, and by supporting the Lake County Forest Preserve’s Blanding’s turtle restoration efforts.
A private family memorial service was held. All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or Save-A-Pet Grayslake.
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We have only the best memories of Dick and his antics, pop-ins (Hot dog and fries, please!🤣) 10K races (“Sheila, get outta bed and run!!) and, perhaps our favorite, when he and Tommy stopped in to meet our newborn, Olivia! It was 1989 and I was a wee bit jealous that Dick and Tommy were already best friends while I was still navigating our new little alien.Dick popped in quite often to visit, even gifting Olivia a small, stuffed saber toothed tiger! That cute little cat went on to be Olivia’s #1 bestie for many years!! You gave us all your best and we miss you the most! Thanks for the memories and laughs!❤️
I am so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. He was devoted to Joyce and nature to the end. I am sorry his health was bad for so long. May he rest in piece. Joyce, my heart goes out to you. Sending my love, Diane
Joyce, I am so sorry for your loss. I hope it brings you and Tom some comfort knowing that now he is at peace. He sure lived a full life. Sending you lots of love, Kathy
Was very saddened to hear of Dick’s passing. He was smart, funny, and a joy to be around. In addition to being taught by Joyce, I had the pleasure of working for Dick’s family for 9 years. During that time I learned a lot, including how to run a business with integrity and dignity. Dick will be sorely missed.
Joyce, our hearts are heavy tonight seeing that Dick passed away. 48 years together, a loss for you and your son. His love is there in your hearts. Our arms hold you from afar. Peter & Bob
Auntie Joyce and Tom, my sincere condolences for the passing of uncle Dick. He was a funny, quiet, kind man from the times I remember being together with our families. God bless you.
May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.