Dr. Richard W. "Dick" Blass

Richard (Dick) Blass passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family. With grace and serenity, he returned to God, who welcomed him into His loving arms and reunited him with his beloved wife, Mariann. Dick's life was defined by devotion - to his family, to his patients, and to the values he carried quietly and consistently throughout the years. A gentle, kind, and humble man, he was cherished by his children - Richard F. Blass (Jennifer Bakula), Matthew L. Blass (Nichole), and Julie A. Hesson (Rod) - and deeply loved by his grandchildren: Nile, Lucas, Mariann, Elaine, Timothy, Cashel and Evelyn. His love for them shaped every part of his life, and they will forever carry the memory of their sweet Papa's warmth, steadiness, and affection.
Family was the true center of Dick's world. His deep love for his children and grandchildren was evident in every choice he made, every effort he extended, and every joyful tradition he helped create. His family will forever treasure the countless memories shared at the lake house in Coloma, Wisconsin - a place filled with boating, fishing, laughter, stories, firework "survival," and the grounding presence he brought to every gathering. Papa Dick would tirelessly pull water skiers and tubers alike around Pleasant Lake until everyone had as many turns as they wanted.
Dick graduated from St. Mel's High School in 1958. He later earned his undergraduate degree from Loyola University Chicago in 1962 majoring in Biology. He went on to professional school graduating from the Loyola University Chicago School of Dentistry in 1966. After graduation, he joined the United States Army and proudly served as a Captain in the Medical Corps.
He met the love of his life, Mariann, while working as a surgical technician at Oak Park Hospital, where she volunteered as a Candy Striper while attending nursing school. Their story, rooted in kindness and mutual respect, grew into a lifelong partnership. They were married August 22, 1964, and together they built a family defined by warmth, steadiness, and unwavering love.
Dick began his dental career in 1966 and established his dental practice in Elmhurst in 1968. He was also a Clinical Professor at the Loyola University Chicago School of Dentistry in the Prosthodontics Division in the early 1970's shaping future dentists in the profession. Known for his impeccable chairside manner, gentle hands, and the soft whistle or hum he often carried while working, he brought comfort and ease to countless patients. Loved not only for his skill but for the calm joy he brought into the operatory, Dick's presence made even the most anxious patients feel cared for. He was truly a pioneer in "painless" dentistry. He retired in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and compassion to his son, Dr. Matthew Blass.
A resident of Elmhurst for 56 years, Dick was a quiet presence whose generosity and integrity spoke louder than words ever could. His family takes comfort in knowing that, after 23 years apart, he and his wife, Mariann, are now together again in the peace of God's eternal home.
He leaves behind a family who adored him, a community that admired him, and a lifetime of memories that will continue to inspire and comfort those who love him. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 North York Street, Elmhurst. Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Street, Elmhurst. Entombment at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
Arrangements in care of Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home. For information, (630) 834-1133.