Richard Lovi Obituary

Richard Lovi, 86, beloved husband of the late Myrna, née Fischel; loving father of Ellen (Kevin Glassberg) and Steve (Jerry Guiffra-Lovi); adored papa/poppy of Noah, Ari, and Josh; cherished uncle of Jacki, Tracy, Michael, Matthew, and their families; lifelong friend of many from Albany Park, Rogers Park, and Lincolnwood. Private gravesite services. Donations to Alzheimer's Association, act.alz.org. For shiva information, contact Lakeshore Jewish Funerals, 773-625-8621

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Published by Chicago Tribune from Jun. 7 to Jun. 8, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Lovi

6 Entries

Donna Wilmot (maiden name)

March 13, 2022

To the Lovi family. My sister and I both waitressed at The Corned Beef Center in the late 1960´s. My sister just found your dad´s obituary. I wanted to share my admiration for him. He was the best boss! He was fair and always calm and gentle. I recall my asking him in my Sr. Year of High School if I could still work for him while I practiced for the lead in my Sr Play of Brigadoon in 1969! I was afraid he would say no. He agreed to work around my after school practices!!

I also recall getting caught talking while facing him in the back room in the restaurant probably wiping silverware off. That was until I learned he could read lips!! One of his children were deaf!! We had so much fun and to this day I always think and order lean corned beef on rye with horseradish and potato salad with a dill pickle!! He is in my thoughts forever! I am sure every St. Patrick´s Day, God has him making corned beef and pastrami!!

Steve Beyler

July 18, 2021

So sorry for your loss. I sadly came across this while searching old memories. My first job was a buss boy at the Plaza Corned Beef Restaurant around '67. Dick was always friendly and supportive. Fond memories.

Glenn F. Frazin

June 16, 2021

To Steve, Ellen and the entire Lovi family and friends my deepest condolences on the loss of a very good man. Dick, as I knew him, was one of my favorite people who helped when we lived on Damen to teach me how to play catch. Then both our families moved to Lincolnwood. Dick took me to so many Bulls games I kind of lost count but his passion for basketball captured my own. My first job was working at the Corned Beef Center in Evergreen Plaza on the far southside. Dick would pick me up in the early morning on the weekends and we would make the long trip down the Dan Ryan to the mall and restaurant. My first job was as a soda jerk doing sodas, shakes and ice cream sundae's. I also washed dishes. I made $1.25 per hour the first year and remember the day when Dick gave me a raise to $1.50. Still remember we were working one closing and it was announced the Viet Nam War was over. Frequently on the way home we'd stop at Tropical Hut for ribs and then stop enroute home to visit Grandpa Harry and Grandma Leah. I practically grew up at the Lovi's and Dick and Myrna were beyond generous to me as I frequented the driveway shooting baskets and visiting with Myrna. Both said anytime I wanted come by and work on my shot. Dick and Myrna were huge influences in my life and were as close as family. Ironic that in the past weeks I was thinking about Dick and Myrna and thinking of calling. Two wonderful people who I am proud to have called wonderful influences in my life. My love and passion for both basketball and work in many parts came from Dick. Years later when I thought about going into the restaurant business I again went to work for and with Dick at the brainchild of a mix of Jewish deli, jazz and blues when Dick and Jules Yoshen opened Bubbie's Bagels and Blue in the Century Mall. I will truly miss a good friend and mentor in my life, someone who was truly a kind and decent man who helped guide me when I was growing up. Thanks to both Dick and Myrna for being the kind of and kind people you always were and I will always remember you for. Hope you find a few friends to play a pickup game of hoops and send special regards to Mom and Dad two of the nicest people I ever knew. Richard Lovi, thank you so much for all you did for me and our family. You will be missed. Our world needs more Dick and Myrna Lovi's. To Steve and Ellen my deepest love, affection and condolences on the loss of your wonderful dad. Still remember the English cab. All my best. Glenn

Regina(Gene) and Howard Katz

June 8, 2021

We are so sorry for your loss. Dick was a very special, kind person. He will truly be missed.

Mark Paley

June 7, 2021

I have many warm memories of Dick.

John Mahady + David Izaguirre

June 7, 2021

Ellen + Steve...You know how special Richard has been in my entire adult life and I am so sorry for your loss. He was a kind, loving and generous soul and I truly considered him my Jewish Father. Myrna and Richard and their love story has given you and your beautiful children an extraordinary legacy to embrace and celebrate. I will forever carry them in heart and I am sending you love and prayers today to comfort you both in this time of need. I love you both so much and hope we can be together soon and celebrate their lives in style.

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