Richard M. Servatius

Richard M. Servatius, affectionately known as Rich and Dick, was born on March 25, 1947, and passed away on Friday May 30, 2025. His life was rich with the love of family and the warmth of friendship.

Richard’s journey began in Freeport, where he lived until the early 1980s. He was fortunate to be educated by the special education teachers in Stephenson County, which equipped him with vital living skills. His engaging spirit led him to participate in the Special Olympics and to enjoy memorable camping experiences at Oakdale Park, where he earned the esteemed accolade of “Camper of the Year.”

In 1982, Richard made a transition to the Bethesda Lutheran Home Campus in Watertown, Wisconsin. It was here that he flourished, learning the skills necessary for independent living. He later moved to Aurora, Illinois, where he continued to receive thoughtful support and guidance from Bethesda Lutheran Communities. For over 20 years, he shared a home with his roommates, Ken and John, creating cherished memories together.

He thrived at the Thompson Center in Aurora, where he engaged in enriching daily activities and even took pride in mastering sign language, a skill he valued greatly.

A devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Aurora, Richard actively participated in the community, greeting attendees on Sundays and taking part in various parish events, including the Men’s Club. He had a passion for music, particularly the Beach Boys, and a fondness for pop culture icons like the Fonz from “Happy Days.” A loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Green Bay Packers, he also relished local dances and valued every moment of joy life offered him.

Richard is survived by his loving family, including his siblings: Susan (Charles) Schlosser of Kiel, Wisconsin, and David (Julie) Servatius of Lena, Illinois. He leaves behind his nieces and nephews: Heather (Tracy) Darbonne and their son Hunter, Scott (Teresa Fernandez) Servatius and their children Jack and Lulu, Steven (Melissa) Schlosser and their daughters Nora, Greta, and Leah, Diana (Joseph) Maier and their daughters Maisie and Eleanor, Peter (Bridget) Servatius and their sons Benjamin and Niall, Amy Servatius and her son Matthew, as well as Brandon (Megan) Smith and their daughter Emma, and Andrew Smith (Stephanie Hassel) with their children Logan and Avery.

He is predeceased by his parents, Richard Servatius and Lucille Servatius Miller, and his stepfather Frank Miller. Richard also joins his grandparents Nicolaus and Anna (Haas) Servatius, Robert and Frances (Boos) Eberle, and his brothers Nicholas and James Servatius in eternal rest.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing Richard will forever cherish his uplifting spirit and the way he faced life’s challenges with courage and a positive attitude. He will be profoundly missed by all whose lives he touched.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am Friday June 6, 2025 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Fr. Peter Snieg will officiate. Visitation will be 9:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Freeport.