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Gary Richrath
1949 - 2015
Gary Richrath
1949 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1949
DIED
2015
Gary Richrath Obituary
Born Oct. 18, 1949, Richrath joined REO Speedwagon in 1970, when they had been playing live for several years but had not yet recorded their debut album, "R.E.O. Speedwagon." The Illinois-based band received minor chart success with the single "Sophisticated Lady" from that album, co-written by Richrath.
Richrath continued to write and co-write popular songs for the band, including 1973's "Ridin' the Storm Out" and 1981's "Take It on the Run," a No. 5 Billboard single that was one of the first videos played on MTV. Richrath remained one of the band's principal songwriters, penning multiple tracks on each of their albums for the nearly 20 years he was a member. He left the band in 1989 after a dispute over the band's direction.
After leaving REO Speedwagon, he released one solo album under the name Richrath, titled "Only the Strong Survive." He reunited with REO Speedwagon briefly in 2013 to play at a benefit concert, "Rock to the Rescue," raising money for victims of tornados that affected central Illinois towns including Richrath's hometown of East Peoria.
Richrath's death was confirmed by his former bandmate, Kevin Cronin, who wrote on the band's Facebook page: "Gary was both a unique guitarist and songwriter, and the embodiment of the tough guy with a heart of gold. I learned most of what I know about being in a rock band from Gary Richrath."
900 Entries
Michael V
May 22, 2025
Gary, you were the reason I started playing guitar in 1977.
Fabulous on the recordings, and absolutely electric live on stage.
I will never forget.
Brian M.
April 15, 2025
Gary was a true friend and family relation. He was always cordial and fun to be arm. A true rock n roll spirit that is unmatched. Love you Bro. You were always a gentleman. Brian
David moran
March 18, 2025
Gary rich rather to me was one of the baddest lead guitarist I surely miss him rip gary
Wendy Gillette
January 20, 2025
I find myself listening to and watching REO videos just to remind myself of the gift Gary gave us with his talent. I regret never having seen him play live. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world Gary you are loved and missed.
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Michael Brackett
January 14, 2025
I was a fan of REO ever since my older brother and sister turned me into them when i was a kid in the early 70's. I will never forget hearing Riding the Storm out for the first time and I was hooked! His solo on Back on the Road Again is a classic, and as Kevin used to say, "noone talks with their guitar the way Gary does!" RIP my man, you were one of the best ever, hands down.
Joseph A Faggion II
December 2, 2024
One great guitar player l.
He made Reo Speedwagon what they are.
Thank you Gary for the music in my 70s.
God Bless you Brother !
Danny Bell
November 3, 2024
One of the greatest guitarists ever. RIP Gary!
Greg Lohman
October 13, 2024
I grew up in Peoria and my friends and I saw REO in the bars before they ever made it big ! After they made it big, I saw them several times over the years ! Gary was the band ! One of the greatest talents I ever saw and I have seen a lot of great bands over the years. Zeppelin, Jethro Tull, Aerosmith, and the list goes on and on ! Gary and REO was up there with the best of them ! What a great tribute to Central Illinois ! My thoughts and prayers go out to Gary Richraths family and friends ! Keep on Rockin´ Gary ! Peace !
Greg Lohman
Mountain Home, Arkansas !
Norman Ritz
October 9, 2024
Enjoyed the show in Jacksonville Florida and I have been a fan of Gary´s style and all his great music with REO speedwagon and his solo days
Paula Fabrizi Kiely
September 14, 2024
Gary you were my rock idol, the best. I remember on a,Saturday night way back in 1976, the debut of REOs first live album on the radio, then I saw you in concert here in CT, what a performance and you were self taught. My sincerest condolences to your entire family, you are truly a legend and I say this in the present tense. RIP GARY!!!
Ed
July 28, 2024
I pray you have found peace in heaven, that is until you turn on your Amp and smile at the Angels !
Anna F.
June 18, 2024
Gary, you were truly a musical genius! You created beautiful lyrics that touched countless hearts; you made your guitar sing like no other. I enjoy your performances when I replay your REO music videos. Gone but never to be forgotten--RIP Gary Richrath!
Alberto morais
June 18, 2024
In my book one of the greatest ever!! R.I.P.Gary Richrath, gone but never forgotten!!
Thomas Haddad
May 18, 2024
I grew up in the 70s...loved his music and talent...miss your sound Gary!
David ,White Eagle
May 14, 2024
Shocked when I learned of this just shocked and heart broken
He was a great inspiration for me when growing up
RIP Gary
Nicki Rankin
May 8, 2024
He made me feel special as a young fan when I met him by giving me a long hug and signing an autograph. Great memory! He was indeed the most underrated guitarist in all of rock and roll!
Kimberly Anderson
April 21, 2024
Amazing guitarist. Heaven will be even better with you there. Thanks for the music
Arthur Wong
February 23, 2024
I am a rock music fan, too, and I also love R.E.O.Speedwagon.My deepest condolences to the entire Richrath family as to all the members of R.E.O. Speedwagon,past and present. Stay strong.
Jim Ellis
November 13, 2023
RIP Gary! I enjoyed every one of your shows at the Indpls Convention Ctr, probably 10 for me because you were my favorite. I never missed your shows. You were best guitarist that the Midwest EVER produced. And your lyrics were great too.
Stan Gutierrez
November 10, 2023
Eternal peace , joy and happiness be with you. Amen
David Quinn
November 7, 2023
Gary is, was and will always be REO SPEEDWAGON!!! Nobody can take that away from him. RIP Gary!
Rick Reavley
October 14, 2023
He is missed!!RIP
CINDY SEVERANCE
October 12, 2023
I LOVE ROLL WITH THE CHANGES AND THE WAY HE KISSED HIS PICK BEFORE PLAYING THE MEAN STRINGS WAS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gator girl
October 10, 2023
I loved Gary in 8th grade. He was the band. He started it and found Kevin in Chicago later. His guitar playing was exceptional! I loved what he wrote and sang as well. Early-mid REO is the best!
Jack Bragg
October 2, 2023
Sometimes you hear a song and immediately love it and never forget it. CCR's "Up around the bend" is one of those but number one in my mind has to be "Roll with the changes" and Gary's guitar playing is the primary reason. He was the best and will never be imitated well or replaced. His excellence comes to mind each time I hear that song.
Bonnie Surzynski
September 14, 2023
Never met Gary or seen him live . But everything I seen and heard through videos and interviews and through the fans he was an inspiration to everyone. He blew my mind away with his explosive guitar solos his vocals!! The one thing that caught my eye was his smile and how he connected with his fans and loved what he was doing!! Gary u are so truly missed and loved!! Thanks for all the memories!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Don Atkins
September 13, 2023
I saw Gary with REO Speedwagon a few times in the '70's and a few times in the '80's.Gary was REO,ad the way he got the crowd into a song was very special.Nobody did it better than Gary.
Sandi
August 30, 2023
REO is here in Syracuse for our state fair. Just not the same without Gary. RIP Ypu are missed
Scott Thompson
August 10, 2023
Gary is still one of my favorite guitarists. Always played from the heart and as Kevin Cronin says in the song 157 Riverside Avenue, "nobody talks with their guitar the way Gary does." Great guitarist, great songs, and great person. Truly missed.
Connie Taubert
August 9, 2023
I wish I could just see you smile one more time. You could light up a room! RIP
Daniel Lee Bohland
July 28, 2023
Gary was simply REO Speedwagon seen them many times back in the '70s may he rest in peace
Rob Iggy
July 24, 2023
Top 5 guitarists all time in my opinion! RIP Gary! You’re truly missed ! Your guitar riffs & playing are in my head constantly!
Gary Boling
July 22, 2023
I helped build their Learjet in the 90s loved their music today and for ever
Rob Iggy
May 14, 2023
Fabulous guitarist AND Person! His guitar playing was/is phenomenal!! On tunes as Ridin the Storm Out; Take It On the Run; & many others! Truly exceptional! He´s always in my top 5 all time! RIP Gary R!
Jim Agnich
April 29, 2023
Mary, Gus Comaites, Ron Baldilocks Jesse and I were thinking of Gary today. Dearly missed.
Tommy Gore
April 24, 2023
In 1978 my buddy Randy Macdonald came home for the weekend from A&M, we lived in Ft Worth, TX. He said I've been introduced to the greatest rock band ever, listen to this. He played ROLL WITH THE CHANGES, AND TIME FOR ME TO FLY, to this day they are still my favorite band, my favorite part of the songs is Gary playing like only he can. God bless you brother, hope to see you in Heaven because now God is first in my life, but your still in the top 5 in my heart, you kept me rolling.
Scott Bowen
April 2, 2023
REO was part of the soundtrack to my early years in the US Air Force, and as a guitarist myself, Gary was one of my early heroes, but what has stuck with me to this day is his smile on the cover of You Get What You Play For. Infectious. Would have liked to have met the man.
Roger B Beesley
February 26, 2023
Gary, was unaware your spirit had passed on from this life. "Roll with the Changes" old soul. Leave 3D for a while & recover your strength again. Make sure you bring your guitar on next visit here though.
Lori swegle
February 24, 2023
Gary, was a huge part of my high school growing up years. I must have gone to see REO 30 times, my boyfriend at the time was a guitarist, his idol was Gary. Rest in peace my friend, you taught me what good music is. You will carry on in my heart. Just have to roll with the changes of life. Lori s
Patrice Oldani
December 30, 2022
I loved Gary almost met him here in Iowa at a bar as a teenager I grew up with reo I saw them in concert several times with Gary will always miss Gary what a talent!!
John Getz
December 20, 2022
Rock & Roll Guitar God you are Gary.
Life is to short and you will live forever thru your music.
I just watched video of Golden country & few others.
But you in the Golden Country solo
WOW and just playing in general.
You are one of the Best Ever!!!
Bonnie Shidler
November 19, 2022
When I think of REO Speedwagon, Gary Richrath is the image that I see. Love his playing, his song writing and his star quality. His smile could light up a stadium. Gary, you did matter...you were loved and are still very much loved by your fans. You were important and are missed so very much. I listen to your music daily. I saw you in concert many times and you were AWESOME. Rest In Peace, sir.
Megan Lange
November 19, 2022
Oh, I have so many fond memories of Gary, when he was with REO, I used to beg him to play 157 Riverside Avenue. (Not on the playlist) which surprisingly they did one night! Afterward, Gary explained why they didn't play it more often....he showed me his bleeding fingers...he was the best guitarist REO has ever had! Such a kind, funny guy. I'm so lucky to have known him.
shelley c stroud
November 18, 2022
Loved to hear him play. Don't think he got the recog nition he deserved as a guitar player. REO will always bring back great memories of an easier, more fun loving time in my life. Thanks for the music. Would've loved to have met you.
Steve Williams
November 17, 2022
Though I'm just a fan that knew him through his music, I was lucky to meet him briefly for a handshake after a concert many years ago. His infectious smile and energetic playing were the mark of a great entertainer, and I still listen to him daily. During low times in my life, his music often helped me through with inspiring lyrics and his outstanding playing. He has meant so much to so many people who he never knew, but we all felt we knew him, and we're the better for it.
Tim frieze
November 15, 2022
Gary was a Great Guitarist loved his playing he will be missed Dearly by all REO fans ..
R.I.P.GARY
Steve Mycroft
November 15, 2022
Nobody plays the guitar like Gary does. Thanks for the memories that will last my lifetime.
Rhonda Williamson
November 14, 2022
Loved your music. ,just went to the concert to watch you play. Forever a fan.
Michael Mcfall
November 13, 2022
The music world has such a big hole in the world where he once stood. Sadly missed.
Fred Carter
November 12, 2022
He will be missed one of the greatest guitarists I ever heard
Thomas Tucker
November 12, 2022
Rokk On Gary....Rokk On
Sean Reilly
October 21, 2022
Just watched an REO concert on AXStv. No Gary. So I looked him up and - very sadly - learned of his passing many years ago. Gary´s spirit lives on in his body of work and he lives on in many happy memories I have from listening to REO albums in my room, or with friends, or live in concert. 157 Riverside Avenue won´t be the same. Thanks for the music and memories brother.
Fred Segovich, Champaign IL
October 12, 2022
Thanks, for the great music and shows.
Bill Diamond
August 17, 2022
Gary may you sit on the right hand of God with all the other great guitarists that gone before you. Your guitar work and song writing is what made REO, REO RIP Gary
layla
May 24, 2022
i´m at 17 year old girl, gary has inspired me to pick up the guitar and within a couple months i am already pretty decent. i think so highly of gary and truly believe he is the best guitarist ever. although i only became a fan about 2 years ago, gary is my favourite rockstar, and my for my 17th my dad saved up hundreds to get a signed picture of gary in 1979 from a professional licensed dealer. my most treasured gift, and i will always regard gary as the absolute best.
Leilani Pelletier
May 1, 2022
I heard you :)
Ann Chargualaf
March 23, 2022
R.I.P. Gary May the Perpetual shine upon you Rest In Paradise love listening to you play guitar your such an amazing guy your memories will live on my husband passed the same year 2015 my condolence to family and friends
March 23, 2022
R.I.P
Gary
Jeffrey Lee Snyder
February 21, 2022
I was playing drums in Club @ the Lake of the Ozarks in 1989-90...A older gentleman approached me and said..you need to be playing Drums for my son..I ask who's your son..He proudly stated Gary Ritchrath.. What a compliment..I about fell over..Gary was one the BEST R&R guitar players to EVER BLESS us with their Amazing talents..R.I.P Gary .. Sadly Missed.
Dave Goebel
February 18, 2022
Gary Richrath was a unique and gifted guitarist. I listen to REO´s music often and always enjoy Gary´s playing. Thanks for the great music and Rest In Peace.
Rick Tillis
January 31, 2022
I listened to Back On The Road Again last night. Every time I hear that song Gary comes to my mind. RIP.
Amanda J Johnson
November 8, 2021
TIME AGAIN OFF THE GROUND,. IRONICALLY SPOKEN GIVEN CIRCUMSTANCE, TO THE CLOUDS ARE HIGHER ,. BOTH SOUND BEYOND REACH,. LIGHT MAY BE FOUND"! ALWAYS IN TRUST, TRUTH, LONE LAST FLIGHT!".,,.
Amanda Joyce Johnson for here in all of us",!?
Connie Streeper Pilon
November 7, 2021
I grew up with Gary Richrath since we were both very young. His sister, Sherri, what's a friend and we went to kindergarten together. I also knew Dennis hi, Wade an especially they're wonderful, beautiful mother Eunice. She really backed Gary in his career.
Before the garage bands, we played world war II around the neighborhood. Life was so good back then. All of us had this huge neighborhood where everybody knew everybody else.
When the garage band started, that was what we did all the time. Gary taught me how to play the guitar.
Some neighbors complained when the band went "electric" but my wonderful dad would yell out over the ravine that's separated our homes, "come on Gary. I can't hear you!"
I went to U of I in 1970 and it was a joyful continuation I'm watching REO continue in greatness.
I miss Gary so much. Knowing him my whole life.
Thank you for making a commemoration of a real star musician.
Connie Pilon ( Streeper )
THOM SCHOONMAKER
October 16, 2021
SAW HIM PLAY,MIAMI RIVER FOLK FESTIVAL 1975.I WAS PLAYING ROCK IN CINNCINATI,MY BAND MATE SAID ,"THIS IS THE GREATEST GUITARIST YOU WILL EVER SEE" HE WAS'NT TO FAR OFF.BLEW ME AWAY.TOP 10 GRATEST GUITARIST OF ALL TIME.
Lisa Christensen
September 20, 2021
From a very young age I knew he was special...the sounds that only he could make....incredible!! You are a hottie! Keep rockin wherever you are and keep smilin down on us while we listen to your playing.....I play Turkey Trot every Thanksgiving.....miss and love you lots
Lisa Christensen
September 14, 2021
I am very very sorry for your family's loss. Even at a very young age I knew he was an amazing guitar player....he made sounds noone can do or duplicate....I really loved listening to him play.....and of course as a young girl I thought he was a hottie.....his photos on my walls ....keep on rockin up there....that's when your happiest
Debra Pope
September 14, 2021
Gary was the best of the best! He put his heart and soul in his music and guitar playing, I have seen none better, rock on in Paradise Gary! You are so loved and missed, never forgotten!
John E Rox
September 12, 2021
This man really knew how to make that LesPaul tell you a story! God bless him and his family!
Tina K.
August 16, 2021
Since 1980 when I first heard REO´s High Infidelity I realized in a heartbeat that although there are many guitarists out there, none compared to Gary. He had it all and it came through in his playing. Also a gifted songwriter with a great voice and a larger-than-life stage presence and smile. But mostly what I´ll remember about Gary was his ability to capture the heart and soul of what music really is and be that guy that so many aspire to be. I´ll never forget him or the music that also greatly changed my life, starting in high school that continues to deliver that magic even today. Gary got his wings but he already had them and now play on brother in the house of The Lord. Psalms 100:1-100:5
Eddie Martin
August 8, 2021
I saw you in `71. I had no idea who you or your band were. You made quite an impression, as here it is 50 yrs later and nearly 6 years after your passing and I still think about that concert from time to time. I have yet to discover anyone who makes it look as easy and fun as you did. You were an awesome musician and the best damned guitar player I ever saw. You, sir, are missed.
Dan
July 5, 2021
Saw reo in pgh pa back in early 80s . We were on floor of civic arena like 10 rows back. Awesome show. RIP Gary.
Debra Pope
June 12, 2021
Words can't describe the hole and pain in my heart and soul knowing that you are gone. Thank you Gary for the blessing of having you on this Earth for the time that we did! You're talent, your artistry and your looks will keep you in the heart and minds of millions for decades to come. You are and always will be the blood and soul of REO, they aren't even close to being the band they were with you and your guitar! Rest in Paradise sweet man, hoping to meet you when I get there!
Debbie Hunt
May 7, 2021
I truly LOVED his guitar playing, and the band REO Speedwagon
Kyong Gallagher
March 18, 2021
REO was my first concert in the 7th grade. Gary was my idol. I had “I love Gary”stickers all over my bedroom walls and my trapper keeper lol. He was and still is a guitar legend.
Kyong Gallagher
March 18, 2021
REO was my first concert in the 7th grade. Gary was my idol. I had “I love Gary”stickers all over my bedroom walls and my trapper keeper lol. He was and still is a guitar legend.
Gregory G Grunloh
December 5, 2020
I was just watching some old videos on YouTube. I was in high school in central Illinois in the mid-80's and Gary was everything to me. He was the living embodiment of cool. Everything that he did, every way that he moved on stage...he was always the best, always the coolest. Off the stage perhaps the greatest songwriter of a decade. A decade of rock and roll. Thanks Gary, for all of those great years and even now...you always be there on my playlist.
Anders Golgeson
November 21, 2020
Thank you Gary for your energetic driving in your Guitar playing and precision without any pedals o tricks
Just your fingers and souls LEGEND ❤
JIM MOSES
October 29, 2020
You WERE THE BEST GUITARIST IN THE WORLD IN MY OPINION!! I PRAY YOU ARE PLAYING NOW FOR THE FATHER THE SON THE HOLY SPIRIT AND ALL OF THE HEAVENLY HOST I HOPE IF YOU ARE IN HEAVEN I'LL GET TO MEET YOU SOMEDAY BIG FAN OF YOURS JIM MOSES KEEP PUSHING ON!! MY FRIEND GOD BLESS YOU FOR ALL ETERNITY SINCERELY JIM MOSES!!!
Lisa C
October 4, 2020
I can’t believe it’s been 5 years since his passing. I was in middle school when you get what you play for came out. I of course was in love with Gary. Had the biggest crush on him. I always noticed his one and only style of how he he’d play from the heart and I think his talent Made Reo who they were. He was one of the all time best guitarist ever. Rip Gary and prayers for your loss to your family. Someday I’d like to travel and get a pic on that bench they made in memoriam to you in Peoria. I think that’s where. Prayers to you family and friends of the Great Gary Richrath
CAROL D.
October 3, 2020
He was the HEART of REO!
Angela Jones
September 14, 2020
REO was my 2nd concert ever & I just fell in love with Gary! his stage presence & guitar playing was amazing. not to mention he was very easy on the eyes, he has owned a piece of my heart ever since!! I Love You Gary, keep rockin in heaven with all the Greats that went before you, RIP Sweet Gary,
Brian Christopher
September 5, 2020
I will nevwr forget your incredible performance at the 1978 World Music Festival. You always inspure me to this day brother. Rest in peace.
Sandra Sylvis
August 18, 2020
Gary's music never fails to bring a smile to my face. He will forever have a piece of my heart. "Gary thank you for so many wonderful memories".
Karen DeLegge
August 13, 2020
You will be Forever in my ,You will be my favorite guitar hero always,.....if only I could of met you.....
Jim Ellis
August 7, 2020
I saw R.E.O. about eight times at the Indianapolis Convention Center. They were like our house band. I loved every show. I went to Ball State at that time and let me tell you, Gary was a guitar God to everyone I knew. RIP, Gary the Great.
Jim Ellis
August 7, 2020
I saw R.E.O. about eight times at the Indianapolis Convention Center. They were like our house band. I loved every show. I went to Ball State at that time and let me tell you, Gary was a guitar God to every knew. RIP, Gary the Great.
regina McDaniel
May 12, 2020
KEEP SINGING THOSE BEAUTIFUL SONGS. THE WORLD IS A BETTER PLACE TO BE IF YOUR MUSIC IS PLAYING!
regina McDaniel
May 12, 2020
I GREW UP LISTENINGTO YOUR MUSIC. 2020 I STILL AM LISTENINGTO IT. THANK YOU FOR SO MANY GREAT SONGS AND PERFORMANCES. YOU WILL BE FOREVER IN MY HEART AND SOUL. RIP GARY
Carl Schermerhorn
May 1, 2020
I grew up listening to Gary. Loved REO. Gary was the greatest guitar player ever. Loved him. So sorry and sad to hear of his passing. Will always miss him.
Marie Gortney
April 16, 2020
You are missed and loved as much as the day you passed through Heaven's gates. Thank you for the legacy you left us! <3 Marie
Lori Turner
March 6, 2020
Watching Gary doing a guitar solo right now on YouTube. You Get What You Play For is my all-time favorite album. If there's a rock-n-roll heaven, you know they got a hell of a band.
Joe Lascon
February 9, 2020
Still missing you!
D. Bailey
November 25, 2019
One of the greatest guitarists ever! Rock on Gary, you are missed!
Jim Moses
October 19, 2019
Gary was not only a great guitarist but he had a great stage presense God Bless You and keep you for eternity Jim Moses Fla
Lori McFarland
September 24, 2019
MY HEART HAS BEEN CRUSHED I Skipped school to get tickets because of GARY RICHRATH. Over night campouts at The CHECKERDOME,St. Louis. Skipped school the day after an REO concert.
So many times Lost count.
GOD BLESSED US , WITH YOU,
GARY RICHRATH.
Dominic Vara
September 19, 2019
Hope you knew how much you were loved and appreciated while here on earth... Gary's clean guitar shreds were amazing! We will NEVER grow tired of "Roll With The Changes"! Thanks for the great music Gary!
Susanna
September 14, 2019
Keeping your memory alive, sweet man. Love you always - Susanna
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