Richard G Prete

Richard G. Prete, age 88, of Beecher, Illinois, passed away peacefully, October 26, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Sandra Prete nee Stachowicz. Loving father of David (Christine) Prete, Jennifer (Tom) McFarlane, Amy (Johnny) Gallegos, Christopher (Cynthia) Prete, and Kristina (Will) Stewart. Cherished grandfather of fifteen, great grandfather of sixteen great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter. Dear brother of Rosemary Savage and Robert (Carol) Prete.

Richard was born on January 27, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Jean and Milo Prete. He held a special place in his family from the very beginning, becoming the first grandson of Leonard and Franciszka Pluta. From those early beginnings, Richard began a life that would touch the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Richard’s story is one of family, love, and the many experiences that shaped him into the man he was. Family was at the heart of Richard’s life. The love he shared with his family and the memories they created together will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Throughout his life, Richard wore many hats; son, brother, friend, husband, father, Marine, Knight of Columbus Grand Knight, Commander of Amvets, Alicia’s House and Manteno’s Veterans Home volunteer, just to name a few. He filled many roles, took on many responsibilities, and experienced the joys and challenges that come with a life well lived. He looked for the positives and didn’t complain about difficulties but rather choose to look at the blessings God had given him. Yet, among all the titles he carried and all the things he accomplished, husband and grandfather were the roles he cherished most.

He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the place he held in the lives of those who loved him. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the memories he leaves behind will continue to bring comfort, laughter, and love to those who carry him in their hearts. He will be forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten. Semper fidelis.

Memorial Visitation to be held Friday, November 6, 2026, from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Smits - Steger Memorial Chapel, 3045 Chicago Rd., Steger, IL 60475. Funeral Mass to be held Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Liborius Catholic Church 71 W. 35th St. Steger, IL. Inurnment to be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Alicia’s House, 17 Paulsen Avenue, South Chicago Heights, IL. or the Manteno Veterans Home,1 Veterans Drive, Manteno, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Smits – Steger Memorial Chapel, 3045 Chicago Rd., Steger, Illinois 60475. Further information is available at smitsfh.com or call 708-755-6100.