Richard J. Cusack

Richard J. Cusack

Richard Cusack Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Jun. 3 to Jun. 4, 2003.
Cusack, Richard J. Writer, Producer and Actor, beloved husband of Nancy (nee Carolan), loving father of Ann, Joan (Richard) Burke, Bill, John and Susie, dear grandfather of Dylan and Miles Burke, fond brother of the late Donald Cusack. Visitation Wednesday, 3 to 9 p.m., at Drake & Sons Funeral Home, 5303 N. Western Ave. Funeral Mass Thursday, 12 noon, at Sheil Catholic Center, 2110 N. Sheridan Rd., Evanston. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to North Suburban Peace Initiative, 2214 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL, 60201, Sheil Catholic Center, 2110 Sheridan Rd., Evanston, IL, 60201, Piven Theater Work Shop, 927 Noyes, Evanston, IL, 60201 or Jonah House, 1301 Moreland Ave., Baltimore, MD, 61216. 773-561-6874 www.Legacy.com Visit Guest Book at www.suntimes.com

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May 28, 2025

Chip Fitts posted to the memorial.

January 6, 2025

chip fitts posted to the memorial.

June 30, 2003

Linda Maniscalco posted to the memorial.

Chip Fitts

May 28, 2025

REST EASY MR. CUSACK. YOU WERE AWESOME.

chip fitts

January 6, 2025

He had a small part as a high school principal in My Bodyguard who appeared to be a caring and decent person. I have watched the film several times and will watch it again. R.I.P. MR. CUSACK.

Linda Maniscalco

June 30, 2003

I'am a long time fan of John and Joan and I wanted to offer my condolence. I lost my father eight months ago I understand the pain. May you be there for one another at this difficult time in your life.

Steve Ordaz

June 27, 2003

Dear Cusack Family: I know about your husband, your father, only from what I have read. But the outpouring of affection I have seen leaves no doubt as to what a special man he was on this earth, to you most especially. Some day it will be revealed to each of us the significance of our worldly lives. I'm sure Richard Cusack's importance goes far beyond being the father of such a well admired family. My sincerest condolences to you all.

Amy Wall

June 21, 2003

Dear Cusack Family:



As an admirer of the Cusack family filmography, I was saddened to find the news of your loss. After doing some job-required research on John's films and career, I observed a strong family bond. THAT is a rare treasure and a true testiment to the life intentions Richard chose for himself.



"When I die I shall soar with angels,

And when I die to the angels, what I shall become,

You cannot imagine."

-Rumi



I pray you all find an enduring peace.

Sally

June 18, 2003

My deepest sympathy to your entire family.

Patrick McGinn

June 18, 2003

Dear Cusacks,



The passing of your grandfather, father and husband is indeed a sorrowful event.



My family and I will miss his sense of humor and the traditions which he helped to keep alive and thriving especially during the holidays and at Thanksgiving.



Growing up in Evanston it was difficult not to know Dick Cusack and once you met him, you were instantly captivated by his energy and enthusiasm.



My heartfelt condolences are extended to you all at this time.

mary kathleen donahue-jasko

June 17, 2003

Ave Maria plena gratia

Susan and David King

June 14, 2003

Our condolences to the entire Cusack family. He sounded like a wonderful man who will be greatly missed.



God Bless You.

Lee Ann Thomas

June 11, 2003

Dear Cusack Family,



I had the pleasure of meeting Richard and Nancy Cusack at St. Mary of the Lake's anniversary celebration at Navy Pier in October 2001. I accompanied my aunt to the celebration and Cusacks sat at our table. Richard was such an interesting and nice man to visit with (Nancy, too). I am sorry for your loss. It sounds like he was a wonderful husband and father.

Gary Lamb

June 9, 2003

My heart aches for you all. I don't know what to say. Anyone who ever met Dick saw the warmth and beauty in him. He treated everyone with respect. As you all know a part of him lives on in each of you and every person he had contact with. The Cusack home was always warm and inviting. Dick and Nancy always made any friend of their children welcome. I remember dropping by one summer day to see if Ann was at home from college. I was invited in to have something to drink and talked for 25 minutes before they let me know Ann wasn't expected until next week. It is rare when people truly take an interest in their childrens friends lives.

My father lives on in me... I feel his warmth and his pride in everything I do... I feel his presense every time I reach beyond myself for something new... I see his smile in my daughters face... and yes I see his stubborness too... how much I miss it all. Seven years has cooled my emotions a little, but not my memory.

I hope that you all will be there for each other (of which I have no doubt) and I hope you all know in your souls that he is with you and proud of you. If I could be there for you Annie, I would. Call if you need anything... anything! Come on by, "the bar is always open and the conversation is free"... I send all my love to you and to your family. May God hold you all in the palm of his hand. With much love, respect and sadness,

Gary Lamb (also for Joanne, my wife and Shannon my daughter)

MaryEllen Swetz

June 9, 2003

To the Cusack Family,

I would like to say that it is going to be ok, but one never knows what to say or what to do when someone has lost a loved one, unless they have actually experienced such a devasating loss. I have lost both of my parents in the last 13 years, and it is still hard. I can say that dont take it for granted that you can call them later or see them tomorrow as I personally can say you may not have tomorrow to do this. Your loss is very hard for you, and I am very sorry to learn of this, I will pray for your family in your time of need. May God be with you all.

With my Deepest Sympathy,

MaryEllen C. Spear Swetz

Christopher Bukrey

June 8, 2003

Dear Cusack Family,



I am truly sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.



Sincerely,

Christopher Bukrey

Patty Culliton

June 7, 2003

I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Cusack's illness and passing. Godspeed to all of those who loved him and whom he loved.



"Who's to say where the wind will take you

Who's to know what it is will break you

I don't know where the wind will blow

Who's to know when the time has come around

I don't wanna see you cry

I know that this is not goodbye."

- Bono/U2

Ann Geddes

June 5, 2003

Dear Nancy, I am expressing heartfelt condolences to you and your family for the loss of a wonderful husband and father. Dick was an extraordinary man. Like so many who were in touch with Dick through business or friendship, I appreciated who he was and always enjoyed his conversations laced with humor and wit. Having the family close at this time is comforting, and I wish you all well. With deepest sympathy, Ann Geddes

Melissa and Bill Sibert

June 5, 2003

Dear John, Joan, Ann and entire Cusack family,

We can't begin to tell you how sorry we are about the loss of your Dad. We've been long time fans of your family for probably half of our lives. We almost feel like we do know you.

Your Dad seemed like he was such a kind, friendly, funny and wonderful person. He must have been, to produce such a talented family.

We just wanted you to know that you're in our thoughts and prayers. Your family's movies have brought such joy into our lives. God Bless

LISA MARIE HALL

June 4, 2003

Dear Cusack Famiy,



Remember we have memories so that we can have roses in December...I am a long time fan, who also lost my father recently. I know the road ahead seems uncertain and scary.I also know that there is nothing that can be said to ease your pain and frustation...so I'll spare the sentiment and just let you know that your family is my thoughts and prayers.

Kathy (Axe) Benson

June 4, 2003

I was saddened to hear of Dick's passing. Having grown up in Evanston, going to Sheil Catholic Center, I will always remember what a great lector he was at mass and especially during Holy Week. Dick had such a gift for sharing God's word and making it come alive to us!



My thoughts and prayers are with the Cusack Family and everyone whose life has been touched by knowing Dick or seeing him in action.



I would like to leave you with a quote that has always comforted me during times like this: "What we have once enjoyed and loved deeply we can never lose. For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." ~ Helen Keller

Nicole Novotny

June 4, 2003

My deepest sypathy and prayers to your family. I am a long time fan. May God be with you all in this difficult time.



Nicole Novotny

Christen Davis

June 4, 2003

Dear John, Joan, and Family-

I have been a long time fan and I just wanted to express how deeply sorry I am for the loss of your father. I too recently lost my own dad. Our love ones never die as we keep them alive inside of our hearts. Take care of eachother.

Lynda Whitlock

June 4, 2003

To the Cusack Family



I am sorry for your loss. His gifts will live forever in hearts and minds. The Hope is that one day you will all be reunited..



God Bless you and keep you

God Make his Face to shine upon you

And give you his Peace.

L. Medina

June 4, 2003

My condolences to your family. I am along time fan and am truly sorry for your loss.



God Bless

LMedina

Lillian & Christopher Doran

June 4, 2003

We would like to offer our condolences on the departing of your beloved father.We are praying the Lord will lay his hand on you all for comfort. May your beloved rest in peace.

Keeping you in our prayers at this difficult time.



Lillian Doran

Chris Thomas

(WHITE HEN PANTRY)

Marian & Melanie Stillo

June 4, 2003

We send our condolences to your family. God Bless your Father and may he rest in peace.May God be with your family in your time of need.



Sincerely,



Melanie and Marian Stillo

harvey mandlin

June 4, 2003

A sad loss of a man but one who made profound contributions for generations to come.



Harvey Mandlin

Angela Turley

June 4, 2003

Dear Nancy and kids,

Dick's love of writing and his beautiful words of encouragement will remain forever in my heart. The world is so much less than it was a few days ago. Please be comforted by knowing that Dick was loved by so many.

Rose Dunn

June 4, 2003

My condolences to John, Joan, and the Cusack Family on your loss. I am a long time fan and just wanted to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family.



Thinking of You......



Rose

William Masterson

June 4, 2003

My deepest sympathy to the Cusack family in the loss of their dear one.

Bill Masterson,Holy Cross Class of 1950

Meagan

June 4, 2003

My condolences to the Cusack family, it is truly a sad day, but I also rejoice that the world was blessed with the talents and creativity of Richard Cusack. He fought the good fight for peace and inspired others to continue this effort. His spirit will live on in all those who will not be silenced in the effort for peace and goodwill.

Take Care,

Meagan

Carol / Bob Bozinovich

June 4, 2003

Dear Cusack family,

We have been long time followers

of Joan & John, therefore we wish to extend our condolences to the entire Cusack family

Bob & Carol Bozinovich

Joyce Royster

June 4, 2003

Dear Cusack Family -



Please accept our sympathy on your loss.



God Bless.



David & Joyce Royster

Ilene Lippitz Foster

June 4, 2003

Dear Cusack Family:

I have known Ann, John and Joan since our days at ETHS. I remember the first time I met Richard Cusack was at a party at your home! He was so full of life and humor and i remember feeling very comfortable. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Sue Rydzewski

June 4, 2003

Dear Cusack Family,

I am a long time fan of John & Joan and I just wanted to offer my condolences. May God bring you peace in this difficult time and may your memories comfort you.

Lila Tamblyn

June 3, 2003

Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your Father. He must have been an exceptional man and Father.

Bishop Edwin Conway

June 3, 2003

Dear Nancy and family,

I regret that my own struggle with cancer will keep from personally seeing you, praying together and asking for God's peace. That however is my prayer. Have courage in the days to come.



Bishop Ed Conway

Rick Kuhlman

June 3, 2003

with deep sympathy, john and joan

andria mazzucchi

June 3, 2003

To the Cusack family,I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Such a wonderful husband and father. I just lost my father to colon cancer a few weeks ago, so my heart goes out to each member of your family. My family will keep you all in our prayers.

Buonanni family

June 3, 2003

Our thoughts and prayers to the entire Cusack family during this difficult time..may your sadness soon be replaced with many, many happy memories of days gone by.

Ron Clasky

June 3, 2003

Dear Cusack Family:

I was very sorry to hear about Dick.

I worked with him for many years when I was a Chicago Film Editor.

He was an excellent producer and writer. Editing his commercials and films were among the best work I had the proud pleasure of participating in. His creative energy on every project he produced was outstanding and his productions excelled. Most important, he was a good friend and although I have been away from Chicago and Evanston for 18 years,

I think of him often and will continue to remember him.

Our condolences to all of you from a family who used to live a few blocks from you.

Sincerely

Ron, Ceci, Adrienne, David & Sara Clasky

Steven & Carmen Haddaway

June 3, 2003

In the absence of family, there is always love. Best wishes.

Valerie Powley

June 3, 2003

Cusack Family -

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have been a fan of Richard and the family's work for many years. Having lost my mom to pancreatic cancer in 2002 I can imagine how devastated you must be and I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Irene Shotts

June 3, 2003

We have lost a great actor... May the memories of him get you through this trying time.. we will say a special prayer for your husband/father.



Rest in Peace Richard..

Jeffrey Sweet

June 3, 2003

I only had the pleasure of meeting Dick Cusack a couple of times, but I admired him and his work, and he seemed to be a constant and inspiring presence even without my having the pleasure of knowing him better. My heart goes out to friends, family and, indeed, the whole Chicago theatre community for what is a considerable loss.

Chris / Pam Watson

June 3, 2003

We are very sorry to hear of your loss.Dick was warm and accepting. I remember as a kid being in awe of his sense of humor and timing. He gave a great deal to all who knew him.

Sharon Stockman

June 3, 2003

I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Dick was a good man, a family man, a writer, an actor, and an influence that will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.

Suzanne Abbott

June 3, 2003

My deepest sympathies are with your family at this, your time of need



Sincerely,

Edith Nihsen

June 3, 2003

I am really saddened to hear of his loss. Obviously a great man, who was unafraid to take risks. He will be missed.

Tony Spilotro

June 3, 2003

Your loss is felt by many. Your talents have shown results. Continue on with your good work. Please accept our sympathy at this sad time.



Tony and Bette

Michael and Virginia Nolan

June 3, 2003

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Richard left a great legacy in his work and his children. We've enjoyed the wonderful work of Richard and the family over the years. We appreciate the artistic gifts we've been given from the Cusack's. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Robert Irons

June 3, 2003

Dear Cusack family:

Please accept my deepest condolences for the passing of Richard Cusack. His work is a testimony to his talent, but his real legacy lies in the talents of his progeny. Your work carries on his vision and humor, and brightens the dreary days of so many.

He will be missed.

Lisa Andersen

June 3, 2003

My thoughs and prayers are with the entire family

Paul Mesirow

June 3, 2003

Having experienced the wrenching loss of my own father, you have my deepest sympathies. Please accept my kindest wishes for your solace and healing at this difficult time. Success does not offer immunity to life, as we all know. Be well!

Mary Price

June 3, 2003

So sorry to hear of your loss. May peace and love be with your family at this time. Sincere condolences.

Linda Dumas

June 3, 2003

Please accept my prayers and deepest sympathies. Enjoy your memories and know that he will always be with you in your hearts.

Bonnie Seebold

June 3, 2003

Dear Cusack Family--



I was so sorry to heard of Dick's death. I have such fond memories of staying with you during my year at Northwestern University. Dick's humor and humility impressed me very much. I will always remember how much at home he made me feel. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. How lovely, though, to have spent your lives with such a wonderful man.



With sympathy,

Bonnie

Gary Houston

June 3, 2003

Dick was a kind, decent, straightforward man with more than a touch of personal generosity. He had a giving heart and a forgiving spirit. I am sorry we have all lost him.

Mary Lu Roffe

June 3, 2003

I was so sorry to learn of your loss. What a talented, lovely man and obviously a tremendous and wonderful influence on his family. Please accept my deepest sympathy. Mary Lu Roffe (theatre producer)

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May 28, 2025

Chip Fitts posted to the memorial.

January 6, 2025

chip fitts posted to the memorial.

June 30, 2003

Linda Maniscalco posted to the memorial.