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Richard Schwab

1946 - 2018

Richard Schwab obituary, 1946-2018, Wilmette, IL

BORN

1946

DIED

2018

FUNERAL HOME

Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home

111 Skokie Blvd

Wilmette, Illinois

Richard Schwab Obituary

Schwab, Richard D. Of St. John, IN, died on April 5. He was 71. Rick spent 49 years in the insurance industry, nearly 40 of them as an agent at Rick Schwab State Farm Insurance in Glenwood, IL, the town where he and treasured wife Diane raised their two sons, Danny and Jay. Rick was born in Chicago and spent most of his youth living on the south side of the city, unaware that the love of his life and wife of 41 years was growing up just a few blocks away. Many days of his childhood were spent playing neighborhood ballgames and skipping class in favor of rooting on his Cubbies at Wrigley Field. Rick was a sports fanatic with a penchant for backing the underdog. He was especially enraptured with the Cubs - even authoring a book, "Stuck on the Cubs," a humorous take on the life of a Cubs fan. His passion ran equally deep for his beloved Salukis, the sports teams of his alma mater, Southern Illinois University. He also was a horse racing enthusiast and lover of bowling. Rick was known for his extreme generosity, be it with loved ones or even strangers on the street. His perfect day would include a piping hot pizza, an ice cold can of Tab and reliving stories of beloved athletes such as Ernie Banks and Walt Frazier, surrounded by family and friends. What else made Rick beam? A hot blackjack streak in Las Vegas, a homecoming parade in Carbondale, a musical that kept him awake until at least intermission, and virtually anything uttered by his three grandchildren. He had little use for iPhones or social media, believing that preferable forms of communication included a well-crafted letter, a nightly newscast and a good, old-fashioned newspaper. Rick is survived by Diane; by his two sons, Danny (Emmy) and Jay (Alexa); siblings Steven (Nancy) and Melinda (the late Alan Goldberg); his grandchildren, Sarah, Gabriel and Audrey; his mother, Gertrude Metzger; a beloved circle of extended family and friends, and his "granddogs," Sadie and Walter. He was preceded in death by his father, Hank Schwab, and his in-laws, Harry and Magrit Sugar. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Southern Illinois University Foundation or JDRF. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 9 at B'nai Yehuda Beth Shalom, 1424 W. 183rd St., in Homewood, Ill. Burial will follow at Jewish Oakridge Cemetery in Hillside, IL. For funeral information, 847-256-5700.



Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Apr. 6, 2018.
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Remembering my lovely cousin Rick with much affection

Susan Olsburgh

Family

March 31, 2023

The anniversary of Ricks death reminds me of how much he enriched my wife. I treasured and continue to treasure my relationship with him, Diane, Jay, Alexa and Danny. My warmest regards to them and the entire Schwab family.

Mike Lawrence

Friend

April 6, 2020

Remembering our dear cousin Ricky with love on the anniversary of his passing. Susan and Bernard

olsburgh Olsburgh

April 2, 2019

I was so saddened to learn of the passing of Rick Schwab. He was our insurance agent for over 20 years. He and Diane were always kind whenever I called or visited the office. When my son was younger and played baseball for the Glenwood league, I remembered the sponsorship of his team by Rick. Their Statefarm office is a part of Glenwood's legacy. His dedication to the insurance business and this community will truly be missed. We would like to extend our sincere condolences to his wife, children and office family.

Steven & Sandra Wallace

Acquaintance

May 5, 2018

So sorry to hear of Rick passing. He was our agent over 30 yrs. My condolences to the Schwab Family he will be missed...

Debra Anderson

May 4, 2018

We are so very sorry to hear Mr Rick Schwab has made his transition. Mr Schwab has been our insurance agent for 40 years. He provided us with superb professional service. He was always friendly and courteous even during the times we may have disagreed. He still remained professional keeping our insurance needs as the main focus of the issue and how best to resolve the matter at hand.Mr Schwab offered words of comfort to our family in 2004 when our father, James Matlock, made his transition. State Farm was very well respresented by Mr Schwab. He will be missed. Our condolences to the family. May the memories of your love one be a comfort during your time of sadness. Just knowing and being reassured of what a blessing it was to have had such a great patriarch in your life.

Blessings

Helen Matlock

May 3, 2018

So sorry to hear, he will be missed.

David Kidd

April 28, 2018

I would like extend my condolences to Diane and the entire Schwab family. Mr. Schwab was our agent for almost 30 years. When my dad passed a couple years ago, I went in to talk to them. I could clearly feel the love coming from Rick and Diane. They felt my pain. I know my dad would go in there often not just to pay his bill but to have good conversation or a great debate. May he rest in peace.

Kimberley Sydnor

April 26, 2018

I was so sorry to hear of Mr. Schwab's passing. My heart-felt condolences to Diane and the family. I got insurance with Richard in the Glenwood office when I was working there for a short time almost 15 years ago. Even after I moved back into Chicago, I kept my business with he and Diane and their office because of their service. I only met him once, but I respected his character. Thank you for your years of service.

Beth Weis

Acquaintance

April 25, 2018

Our condolences to Rick's family. We appreciated doing business with Rick for many years. He was a professional in every sense of the word.

Thomas Klash

Acquaintance

April 24, 2018

I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Schwab family. I have know Rick since 1995. I have my condo and car insurance coverage. I have always been very pleased and that is one of many reasons why I have stayed with State Farm and will continue to do so. I have met his son Danny a few times when I dropped off my monthly or quarterly payment at the Glenwood office. We would always talk for a couple of minutes and I would tell him to say Hi to his Dad. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers. Renee Flowers

April 24, 2018

Will always remember Mr. and Mrs. Schwab as my parents "backdoor" neighbors in Glenwood. Mr Schwab was my first and ONLY insurance agent -- every car and home! Always so very helpful. I was honored that Mr. and Mrs. Schwab attended my dad's wake -- so good to see them. We are saddened to hear of his passing -- received the letter today. Condolences and prayers for Mrs. Schwab and the family.

Rick and Gia Kanak

April 23, 2018

My condolences to Rick's family. Rick was my agent for over 30 years! Also there when you needed something and always gave you fair and honest advice. Beside a great agent a great Saluki fan. As a fellow alum I always loved talking Salukis basketball with him. Rest in peace Rick!

Mark Gwizdalski

April 23, 2018

Rick was a great agent and a great person. Warm and friendly, helpful and accommodating. We just found out about this today 4/23. He will be missed.

Terry and Vicki Jones

Friend

April 23, 2018

Rick has been our family's agent for more than 35 years. He loved hearing how the family was doing, always asked on my folks & was just a really great guy. I extend condolences to Diane, Danny & Jay, Rick's family and his office staff at this difficult time.
Peace to you all
Karen & Phil McHugh & daughters along with
my parents, Dennis & Bonnie Kurowski

Karen McHugh

Friend

April 21, 2018

Praying for the family...Rick was a very good man. He was our families agent and I always considered him a good friend. He will be missed but we will see him again. Our condolences...The Byrd family.

April 16, 2018

Praying healing and comfort for the entire family. Rick was special in showing friendship and caring for others.
Leon and Denosia Fields

April 13, 2018

richard was the best son in law brother in law . he loved my parents margrit and harry sugar and took care of them until their death. he was wonderful to my children alyssa and harrison and to my husband and myself. we will miss you ricky forever and will always keep you in our thoughts

robin and paul bralower

April 13, 2018

Our sincerest condolences to all of the Schwab family. Rick will be missed in this world. The Martin Gianotti family.

April 11, 2018

Missing the Memorial services for Rick, I can still hear what sentiments must be expressed from knowing him. His intelligent, perceptive, sense of humor, colored by his compassionate spirit of kindness made him easy to love, and miss already.

Yvonne Pugh

April 10, 2018

I was so saddened when I heard the news.My family and I have been customers of Rick for over 30years. My prayers go out to the entire family. He will be greatly missed in the community.

Doreen Davis

April 10, 2018

I was deeply saddened when my mom told me about Rick's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and loved ones. I have such fond memories of being with your family at st farm functions and get togethers. I remember Rick as a sweet, soft spoken man. And will always remember Rick and Diane drinking Tab. We will continue to pray for comfort and healing for you all during this difficult time.

Steve and Lindsay (Watters) Neil

April 9, 2018

Diane, Danny, Jay and your entire family
I just found out about Rick as Andy and I always called
him and I am so sad. My heartfelt thoughts are with
all of you

What a wonderful pleasant warm man. Always wonderful
to talk to him and if it was about business, Rick made sure
that family....either my daughter and grand daughters or
of course, his family that he was so very proud of came into
the conversation.

Then there is today...Cubs opener...that got snowed on and
cancelled...Someone must have known that this was Rick's
day....

What more can I say. Go day by day.....forward as I know and
never ever forget the wonderful memories you have all had with
your special husband, father and grandfather.

My love to all of you. Sheila Mecall SIU

Andy Mecall SIU if knowing...would
be terribly upset

Sheila Mecall

April 9, 2018

Never met a more enthusiastic or loyal Saluki. My condolences to all the family. I will miss seeing he and Diane at SIU basketball and football games.

Patrick Hart

April 9, 2018

My Condolences to the Schwab family. I've been a
customer of his business for over 30 years and can't say enough about the good man. May his soul rest in peace, Amen.

Kirk Willis

April 9, 2018

Our deepest sympathy to the family

Carol Bruno

April 9, 2018

Carol Bruno

April 9, 2018

My heart feels for all of you whom I know loved him Dearly.
I am sooo very sorry for your loss.
Rick was one incredibly nice man.
He gave my Dad Cub tickets on occasion, so kind of him. I don't know who was a bigger fan, as they both loved the Cubbies! Please accept my very sincere condolences. I will miss seeing him when I stopped in the office, even if it was for a few short minutes. I'm sooo sorry! He surely will be missed.
I am so very sorry I was unable to make the service as,I only just this morning heard of his passing, or I surely would have been their!
Again I'm sooo very sorry and you are all in my prayers.

Doreen Anna Bishop

April 9, 2018

Diane, Danny and Jay: We were so very sorry to hear of Rick's sudden passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all; may your memories of times together be a comfort to you. Our deepest sympathy,
Lloyd and Marcia Haims

April 9, 2018

To Diane, Danny , Jay and all the family in Chicago
Chaim Aruchim - long life
Thinking of you
James
Ramat Poleg
Israel

James Olsburgh

April 9, 2018

The short time of His acquaintance - I
was duly impressed by Rich's wit and his
passion for life. God Speed
A donation: Children's Cancer Research Fund

Donald Mikulich

April 9, 2018

Dear Diane, Danny and Jay we are so sorry to hear about dear about Mr. Schwab and offer our sincere condolences to the family. May the words at 1 Thessalonians 4:14 help comfort you during this difficult time.

David and Althea

April 8, 2018

So sad to hear of Rick's passing. We saw him recently at Glenwood Oaks . As usual he was smiling. We will always remember him and his great love for the Cubbies. He is truly part of Glenwoods history.
Our sincere sympathy.
Cathie and Bob Marcinski

Cathie and Bob Marcinski

Friend

April 8, 2018

So sorry to hear of Ricks passing. We saw him recently at Glenwood Oaks.
We will always remember him and his great love for the Cubbies.
Cathie and Bob Marcinski

April 8, 2018

So sorry for your loss. Rick was just a really nice guy from the south side. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys.
Margie Copen

margie copen

April 8, 2018

So sorry to hear of Rick's passing. We share many fond memories of the family & our mutual love of the Cubs.

Mona & Harold Shabelman

April 8, 2018

Mona & Harold Shabelman

April 8, 2018

We have had the privilege of knowing Rick for over 28 years. He was one of a kind. He was a model family man, businessman, husband, and friend. He enjoyed his life, his passions, and his relationships with those in his life. My wife Gloria and I always enjoyed the time that we were able to spend with Rick and Diane and our mutual friends. I will miss having spirited debates with Rick about politics. It is a rare thing in today's world to be able to agree to disagree and to poke fun with friends who are on the other side of issues which are sincerely held by each. Each person understands that most things in life are not that serious. What matters is family, friends, trust, and cherished relationships. We do not have to hope that his memory may be a blessing as we are confident that his memory is a blessing.

Mike Salazar

April 8, 2018

Our deepest condolences go out to Diane and the entire family. We will always treasure our autographed copy of "Stuck on the Cubs." May the loving memories of the life of Richard be everlasting.

--Bonnie and David Spangler

April 8, 2018

I grew up across the street from Rick and Steve on Euclid and remember Hank and Trudy well. My brother, Alan and I were also Cub fans. So sorry to hear of his passing. He was a bright, happy kid with a big smile and a warm heart.
Gary Morris

April 8, 2018

Since there are so many things you can be in this world-- be KIND. This is Rick! Unwavering kindness--personally and professionally. Always helpful. My condolences to Diane and the family but also to the world in general as we have all lost a truly good man.

Scott and Belinda Lowry

April 8, 2018

Our thoughts are with our American cousins at this very sad time. Ricky was our all American cousin', dressed in baseball gear and eating pizza. In fact he introduced me to pizza in 1960 in the US Army base at Giessen Germany - when he and his brother Steve cooked it for us. They were experts! It was so good to catch up with Ricky and Diane in London some years ago and to spend time with you at reunions in Chicago. We wish Schwabs, Metzgers and Goldbergs long life' and may the Almighty comfort you as you mourn the passing of such a fine guy. He was so proud of you all. Dorothy and John Sadlik (London) together with their children and grandchildren the Nachshen and Sadlik families

Dorothy Sadlik

April 8, 2018

gerson mosbacher

April 7, 2018

My sincere condolences to the family. May you find comfort in Daniel's words. (Daniel 12:13)

Stanley P

April 7, 2018

Our sincere condolences to you Diane and your entire family on the loss of Richard. He was a wonderful, warm, caring man who touched many lives. Though I only met him several times, his warmth and kind personality were evident.

Ellen Bralower Gelting

April 7, 2018

Treasuring memories of a dear first cousin Ricky. He was a very fine family man and an upright professional in his lifelong career. Sadly great physical distance separated us but strong family bonds were always there. May his memory be for a blessing. Affectionate sympathy to all the family from Susan, Bernard and family. Ramat Poleg. Israel

susan olsburgh

April 7, 2018

My sincere condolences to your family for the loss of your love one. May the comforting words found at Hosea 13:14 help you to cope during this difficult time and in the days ahead.

Z L

April 7, 2018

I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of Rick. Please accept our condolences and may our prayers help comfort your family. I will never forget his kindness. May God give him eternal rest and the family the strength to bear the great pain.

Pravina & Sanjay Patel

Pravina Patel

Friend

April 6, 2018

We want to wish all of Rick's family as much peace and love as we possibly can. This man was a treasure to my family along with a mutual respect and admiration that grew between Rick and our mother, Elinor. We appreciate, too, his family letting us share our memories and respect during this time. A part of Glenwood's history, his presence will be missed. Rick's efforts to truly care for his clients; treating them as they knew, a friend. This will be a beautiful memory of him to have all of their days.

Chuck and Cindy Michalski

April 6, 2018

I am greatly saddened to learn of Rick's death. One of the great pleasures of my life has been interacting with Rick, Diane, Jay, Danny and Alexa. Marianne and I extend our condolences to his loved ones. Please know that you and Rick have a special place in our hearts.

Mike Lawrence

April 6, 2018

Dear Diane, We are the bookends of July and forever friends. My heart is saddened by your loss of Rick. He was truly a mench and a friend to all especially my family. Sending love and hugs, Diane Lorsch Nayhouse

Diane Nayhouse

April 6, 2018

Sending our love thoughts and prayers to the Schwab Family. Rich was not just our insurance agent for over 30 years, but a dear friend. Please accept our sincere condolences during this difficult time as you mourn.

Ray and Toni Hawkins

April 6, 2018

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Memorial Events
for Richard Schwab

Apr

9

Service

10:30 a.m.

B'nai Yehuda Beth Shalom

1424 W. 183rd St., Homewood, IL

Apr

9

Burial

Jewish Oakridge Cemetery

Hillside, IL

Funeral services provided by:

Weinstein & Piser Funeral Home

111 Skokie Blvd, Wilmette, IL 60091

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