Richard F. Waite

Richard Frank Waite (1958-2019)

Beloved by family and friends, Rich unexpectedly departed this world for the next on Monday, January 14, 2019 due to heart failure. Born March 21, 1958, Rich was a loving husband (Babs), adoring father (Lauren(Kevin)), caring stepfather (Craig (Jeanne), Gretchen (Jason), and Paul), devoted grandpa (Chloe, Gibson, Logan, and Emmett), cherished son (the late Donald and Loretta Waite), brother (Lynn (Ron) Pilon, Pat (Al) Fox, Debbie (Craig) Seasly, and Ed Waite(Kymn Donnelly)), uncle, cousin, and friend.

To say this gentle giant of a man will be missed is an understatement. Rich made an impression wherever he was; at home, work, or gatherings of relatives or friends he was a quiet and unassuming presence yet also gut splittingly humorous. Certainly one of Joliet’s unsung storytellers, his descriptions could make you see the scene vividly, and have you roaring by the end. Rich enjoyed his own tales so much he could have trouble getting the last words out over his own infectious laugh. A union member for over 40 years and a friend of Bill W.’s for 28 years, Rich also loved cooking, golfing, and most recently woodworking. His creative hands were busy with ornamental plaster, kneading bread, laminating wooden vases, and hitting a hole-in-one.

Visitation is Sunday, January 20, 2019 from 12:00-4:00 and Service & Storytelling at 4:00, at Tezak’s Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL 60435. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to Stepping Stones (www.steppingstonestreatment.com) or Joliet Area Community Hospice (www.joliethospice.org).