Richard A. Pellegrini

Richard A. Pellegrini, age 85, passed away on Friday, April 20, 2018.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sharon Pellegrini (nee Terlep); their children, Mark (Sue) Pellegrini, Julie (James) Gosselin, Victoria (Juan) Ortiz; his step daughter, Debbie (Esequiel) Gallardo; grandchildren, Matthew, Nicholas, and Adam Pellegrini, Annie and Ellie Gosselin, Jennifer Montano, James Hoffman, Maria Gallardo, and Christina Urbalejo; sister, Janet Wolfinbarger; and sister-in-law, Geraldine Pellegrini.

Preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Catherine (nee Frantini) Pellegrini; his brothers Kenneth Pellegrini and John (the late Nancy) Pellegrini.

Richard graduated from Joliet Catholic High School Class of 1950.  He attended Purdue University on a football scholarship where he was a member of the freshman football team.  Richard then attended Quincy College for 1 year before enlisting in the United States Navy.  He entered active duty in May of 1952 after completing his training at Great Lakes Naval base and was assigned to the USS Quillback, Submarine Division, in Key West Florida.  Richard’s recognitions include the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

After his service, Richard became a Joliet firefighter for 27 years until he retired in 1985.  He also worked as a cement finisher and was a member of the American Legion Joliet Post #1080.

Richard had an endless love for his family and commitment to his faith.  He was an avid Notre Dame football fan.  He enjoyed antiquing and spending time with his family, especially when it came to taking family vacations.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Salvation Army.

A celebration of Richard’s life will begin on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 11:00 AM with a Memorial Prayer Service at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home Chapel, A1 Auditorium, 1201 Wyoming Ave, Joliet, IL 60435 .  A committal service will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery on May 4, 2018 at 1:30 PM.

Obituary and Tribute Wall for Richard A. Pellegrini at www.tezakfuneralhome.com or for information, 815-722-0524.

Arrangements entrusted to Tezak's Home to Celebrate Life.