Photo courtesy of Gurnee Salata Funeral Home
Gurnee, Illinois
Nov 12, 1953 – Jul 12, 2018 (Age 64)
Richard A. Selle, age 64, of Gurnee, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on July 12, 2018. Rick was born on November 12, 1953 in Chicago, the son of Theodore ‘Bud’ and Doretta (Schrecke) Selle; grandson of August and Agnes (Kidd) Selle and Herbert and Amelia (Schmidt) Schrecke.
Known as “Concrete Rick”, he owned and operated RAS Concrete, Inc. for more than 33 years. Rick was a faithful member of Alcoholics Anonymous for over 20 years. He also was a member of several snowmobile clubs, antiques and history-related organizations, and the Welcome Park Unterstuetzungs Verein. He was a student at St. John’s Lutheran School in Chicago and graduated from Luther North High School.
He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Jenny (Runyon); dear daughter Jennifer (Tabi) Gardner-Deas; grandsons Aidan and Patrick, their father David (Tammy) Gardner, their sister Hannah, and their grandmother Barbara O’Grady all of Florida; brother Bob (Mary) Selle; sister Marilyn (late Gene) Engstrom; and by many nieces, nephews, cousins, “in-laws and out-laws” and friends, as well as his devoted employees.
He was preceded in death by beloved daughter Lila Ruffolo in 2002; his parents and grandparents; his stepfather Albert Taylor; parents-in-law Fritz and Diana Runyon; niece Lisa; his aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and many dear animals.
Rick had many interests, hobbies, and connections. He believed in helping others and living life to the fullest. He and Jenny had many amazing adventures and he had been looking forward to the joys of retirement. He bravely battled the glioblastoma brain tumor that took his life, but intuitively knew when and how to “surrender with dignity”.
Visitation will be held at Gurnee Salata Funeral Home, 4190 Old Grand Ave on Monday, July 16, from 4-8 PM. Burial will be private. Memorials can be made to Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter, 2200 Riverwoods Rd., Deerfield, Illinois 60015, or to Warren Township Historical Society, 4690 Old Grand Ave, Gurnee, Illinois 60031, motherrudd.org
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As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Ward & DianeJoy Taylor
April 14, 2024 | PARK CITY, IL | Friend
Rick did cement work for me at my house in Wilmette. He was wonderful to work with.
I am so surprised and dismayed that he is gone. My condolences to his family.
Beth Turk
June 18, 2019 | Wilmette, IL | Friend
Its been more than 6 months and I cant believe it. Miss you every single day.
February 03, 2019
So sorry to hear about Ricks passing. He was a diamond of a man and touched many lives. I have many fond memories of Rick. I believe he has already taken the seat they have been saving for him at the big AA meeting hall in the sky. My best to Jenne and other family members during this difficult time.
Tim C.
August 06, 2018 | IL | Acquaintance
Rick and Jenny,
Rick was a very special glowing light among family, friends and the fellowship. He inspired me and others to stay on a steady course of AA meetings and always be open to lending/sharing with others. I chaired a meeting at Joy Lutheran Church after only 6 months in the program and Rick attended all and would meet me immediately after the meeting with a handshake and smile ("Good going buddy" Or take a bow.) that kept me coming back knowing he'd be there to receive and...
John H
July 28, 2018 | Gurnee, IL
Remembered By
David Marsala
July 18, 2018 | Carpentersville, IL
my dear friend and a fellow A.A member.He was my grand sponsor,and a nice guy. I will miss him. he he be in peace with God . Our condolences Tom,Susan
tom mueller
July 17, 2018 | Lindenhurst, IL | Friend
Our prayers are lifted for your family in our Lord Jesus name amen
Ward and DianeJoy Taylor
July 16, 2018 | Park City, IL | Friend
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Dennis & Georgene
Georgene Manley
July 16, 2018 | Lindenhurst, IL | Grandparent