Richard Koplenik

1936 - 2025

Richard Koplenik
Born: August 28, 1936
Died: October 30, 2025
Richard James Koplenik, 89, of DePue, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at his home.
In accordance with his family's wishes, no services will be held at this time. The Barto Funeral Home, Spring Valley, is honored to be assisting his family.
Richard was born on August 28, 1936 in LaSalle to John and Mary (Piontek) Koplenik. He had fond memories of growing up in rural the rural LaSalle/Dimmick area which led to lifelong love of the outdoors.
He was a graduate of LaSalle-Peru High School and he was a veteran of the United States Army. Richard worked at New Jersey Zinc and retired from LOF Glass after 32 years.
He married Carol Makse at St. Mary's Catholic Church in DePue on September 9, 1961.
Richard was a member of St. Mary's and the DePue Booster Club. He was a true outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. You could always find him on his John Deere tractor, either cutting grass or plowing snow. He raised beagles for a time and attended many beagle trials over the years. He also helped his daughter Denise with her horses and always enjoyed watching a good Western.
Richard was also an avid sports fan, especially of the Chicago Cubs. He coached boys little league and girls softball in DePue for many years. He also started his granddaughter Michelle playing golf at a young age and he enjoyed watching her career at St. Bede Academy and Augustana College.
He is survived by his wife, Carol; his daughter, Denise (Delbert) Coble; and his granddaughter, Michelle Coble, all of DePue.
Richard's family would also like to acknowledge a special "Thank You" to his nephew, Rick Piontek, Dr. Bailey and staff, as well as the hospice care team.
Richard was preceded in death by numerous family members including Donald Piontek, Donna Majchizak, Marie Piontek, Carolyn Lechewski, his parents, grandparents, uncles, and cousins.
Memorials donations in honor of Richard may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/) or The Parkinson's Foundation (https://www.parkinson.org/)
A guestbook may be signed and memories shared with the family by visitng bartofh.com.