Obituary of Kenneth V. Richards
Kenneth V. Richards, age 78, of Crest Hill, passed away peacefully February 19, 2025, at Lightways Hospice, Joliet, IL. He was born March 23, 1947, in Chicago, to Maria (nee Roppolo) and Fred Richards. Ken and his brother, Gary, treasured the memories of growing up on the west side of Chicago attending St. Mel’s Holy Ghost Catholic School. The family later moved to the Lockport area where Ken graduated from Lockport West High School.
Ken worked as a butcher for Eagle Grocery Store in Naperville and Crest Hill. He was an avid fan of movies, especially old westerns and enjoyed watching Gunsmoke reruns. He was involved with Crest Hill Junior Miss Softball in the 1980s as a coach, umpire, and board member. He enjoyed golfing and walking the edges of the golf course looking for wayward balls to add to his very large collection.
Most of all, Ken treasured the time he spent with his family. He looked forward to the yearly Richards Family Reunion with his siblings and their extended families. He was so proud of all his grandchildren, from their smallest accomplishments to their biggest victories, and loved attending all their activities.
He is survived by his daughters, Kelly (Ken) Kramerich and Nicole (Scott) Whiting; his grandchildren, Ryan (Brittany) Kramerich, and Carissa Kramerich, Corinne, Ella, Sam, Ryan, and Allie Whiting; his great-grandchildren, Kennedy and Lincoln Kramerich; his brother, Fred “Gary” (Gail) Richards; and his sisters, Valerie (Richard) Tata, and Loretta (Don) Carlson. Many nieces, nephews, and dear friends also survive.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Richards and daughter, Kerry Kennedy.
Memorial Visitation for Kenneth V. Richards will be Sunday, February, 23, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. at Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL. As it was his request, cremation rites have been accorded.
For those wishing to make a donation in Ken's name, please consider Lightways Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.
For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute page at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
