Richard W. Larkin Sr.

Richard W. Larkin, Sr., of Presbyterian Homes, Evanston formerly of Winnetka, passed away February 4th, just minutes shy of his 96th birthday. He was the devoted husband of Mary F. Larkin; loving father of the late Helen Larkin Gordon (Richard), late Richard W. Larkin, Jr., Christopher S. Larkin, and Susan H. Larkin; cherished grandfather of Kathleen (Timothy) Grafrath, Angela (Larry) Smith, Lauren (Patrick) Mulkerrin, Claire and Jack Fontaine; proud great grandfather of Connor and Nina Grafrath, Patrick and James Mulkerrin; dear brother of the late John F. Larkin. He was preceded in death by his parents Walter D. and Helen P. Larkin.

Growing up on the North Side of Chicago, he developed a deep love for the city. He proudly attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Loyola Academy, and the College of the Holy Cross, followed by Harvard Law School. His Catholic upbringing instilled in him a deep faith, which he practiced actively throughout his life.

After law school, he married Stephanie Howell, and together they spent twenty years building a family. They quickly became a family of six, welcoming twins, Helen and Dickie, followed closely by Christopher and then Susan. He practiced law for many years, spending most of his career at his firm on LaSalle Street, Barasa & Larkin.

He loved playing golf and tennis, traveling, singing, playing the piano, and spending time with family. A passionate performer, he was cast in many productions at the Winnetka Community Theater. He possessed an extraordinary singing voice, and never missed an opportunity to sing Bing. And he could harmonize with any tune. It was through the WCT that he met Mary Fiedler Morgan. They married and enjoyed over forty years of truly happy marriage, residing in Winnetka and Stuart, Florida, their winter home for twenty years. He loved puttering around his house in Winnetka, living there for fifty years before downsizing to a condo, also in Winnetka. The Presbyterian Home became his final residence in 2020.

With his quick wit and charm, he could instantly light up a room. His remarkable memory and sharp sense of humor made him a fantastic storyteller. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 14th at 9:30 a.m. until time of the Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Saints Faith, Hope & Charity Catholic Church, 191 Linden St., Winnetka. Interment All Saints Cemetery.

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In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Catholic Schools Scholarship Program at the Archdiocese of Chicago or Presbyterian Homes Geneva Foundation.