Richard "Dick" L. Schall's Obituary
Richard “Dick” L. Schall (Greasy)
Richard died in the early morning hours of April 28, 2026, leaving behind a family that is still trying to catch up with the reality of his absence. Only the day before, he was surrounded by laughter-sitting with his girls, talking about everything and nothing, giving his usual hard time and being exactly who he has always been.
Richard was born in Pontiac, Illinois. He served his country in the US Army II Airborne from 1955 to 1958. He married the love of his life Lois in 1963. Richard loved watching Gunsmoke, watching the Cowboys play and drinking beer. He was a member of the “you can never have too much ice cream club.”
Richard will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 63 years, Lois Schall, daughters Bunny K. Schall and Debra Stewart (Geoffrey), sons Robert Schall and Cory Schall (Laurel), 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Richard Schall, Jr.
Richard made his wishes clear long before this moment. No fuss, no drawn-out ceremony, no polished speeches pretending he was something he was not. He asked for simplicity: cremation, a quiet goodbye, and honesty. Most especially honesty.
He would be the first to object to anyone calling him perfect or “a great man”. In fact, he’d likely insist you tell the truth. That he could be stubborn, sharp tongued, and in his own words, “an asshole.” He would not be entirely wrong. He had strong opinions and made sure everyone knew them, whether they asked or not.
But that is only part of the story. Beneath the gruff exterior was someone who was fiercely devoted to his family. Richard loved deeply, his wife, his children, his grandchildren and great grandchildren were the center of his world. He would have done anything for them, even if it came packaged with criticism, unsolicited advice, and a running commentary on everything they did “wrong”. That was his way of caring-unfiltered, unwavering, and real.
In honoring his wishes, the family will gather simply, giving those who loved him the chance to say goodbye in their own way. No spectacle, no pretense. Just presence. Just truth.
If you have a desire, please consider memorial donations to your local VA Support Group in Richard’s memory.
Richard will be remembered not as a perfect man, but as our man. Complicated, outspoken, loyal and deeply loved. And if he were here, he’d probably tell us we wrote too much and got half of it wrong!
What’s your fondest memory of Richard "Dick"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard "Dick"?
Share a story where Richard "Dick"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard "Dick" you’ll never forget.
How did Richard "Dick" make you smile?