Prairie State Wire

Richard P. "Dick" Dust, aged 81, of Thornton, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Manteno VA Home on October 1. Survived by his beloved wife Joyce, children Richie (Sandy), Debbie (Dr. Michael Jones), and Chris (Michelle), brother Fred (Joan), grandchildren Elise, Lindsey, Hayden, and Camille, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Originally from Chicago's East Side neighborhood, Dick was a US Army Vietnam War veteran, serving as a helicopter crew chief in the 9th Infantry Division. He held leadership roles in several veteran associations and was a dedicated member of the Thornton American Legion Post 1070. Dick, a skilled mechanic, worked at Wisconsin Steel and BTL Specialty Resins before retirement. An avid car enthusiast, he especially enjoyed working on antique Fords.

Remembered as a lively personality, Dick was a devoted fan of the White Sox and the Green Bay Packers. He coached little league baseball, enjoyed feeding backyard wildlife, and had a soft spot for cats and dogs. Known for his humor and pranks, Dick was the life of every gathering, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Visitation will be at Tews-Ryan Funeral Home in Homewood, IL, on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM until the service at 5:00 PM. Military Honors and Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date. Further information can be found at tews-ryanfh.com or by calling 708-798-5300.

To honor Richard Patrick Dust's memory, consider sending flowers or planting Memorial Trees through the sympathy store.

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