Richard "Dick" Lillquist, 84, of Willowbrook passed away peacefully surrounded by family Jan. 30, 2024.
Richard was born in 1939 to Ernest Lillquist and Harriet Jenson. He was raised in Glenview, attended Glenbrook North High School and went on to graduate from St. Olaf College.
Richard served in the Army from 1962-68. He was passionate about working with the underserved and spent his professional career at the Illinois Department of Human Services as a caseworker and then supervisor. Throughout his life, Richard was actively involved in community organizing and singing in community choirs. In retirement, he performed in an old-time radio troupe, conducted faith-based anti-racism trainings, continued his singing and took walks with the many beloved dogs he owned over the years.
He had many dear friends and numerous acquaintances who noticed he was no longer out and about when his health declined.
Richard is survived by his children, Alisa (Frank) Messana of Hinsdale and Rick Lillquist; his grandchildren, Nicholas and Arianna Messana; his brother, Gerald (Joyce) Lillquist; and other immediate family members.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an animal charity of choice or St. Thomas Hospice at http://www.uchicagomedicineadventhealth.org/foundations/st-thomas-hospice.
Brian Powell Funeral Directors of Hinsdale handled the arrangements.
