Obituary of Richard Frederick Pauke

Richard Frederick Pauke, 78, of Zion, IL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 16, 2018. He was surrounded by family, holding the hand of Donna, his wife of 58 years.

Richard was born on June 21, 1940 in Chicago, IL to Henry and Ethel (Larsen) Pauke. Raised in Round Lake, IL, he was also a resident of Zion for more than 20 years. He attended Round Lake High School and shortly after, joined the military. He served in the United States Army and was a member of the American Legion. He worked for the Round Lake Police Department and owned Alert Detective Agency, RM&S Handyman, and D&D Electric – a true jack-of-all-trades. His most adventurous moment was a group motorcycle trip to Washington D.C. to visit the Vietnam Memorial.

In his youth, Richard traveled, had many friends, and enjoyed getting into mischief. When he met the love of his life, Donna, Richard became the most loving, attentive, present father and, later, grandfather; he was happiest being around his family. At 55 years old, he suffered a stroke. Even though this changed his life and limited the things he could physically do, he remained positive – always finding things to smile and laugh about. Richard was a collector of many things, including model cars, hats, stamps, coffee cups, coins, and the occasional sugar packet from the local restaurant.  He was known for telling stories and jokes, praying and making sure his family was safe, and always stayed interested in the things going on his children's and grandchildren's lives. He would never be seen without his two rings – a "DAD" ring from his daughter, Deborah and a Law Enforcement ring from his daughter, Diane. He also always proudly wore his silver watch. His son, Keith, has often said that he would not be who he is without his father; they shared a bond that lasted throughout Richard's lifetime. His granddaughters, Aysha and Ryann, fondly remember feeding peanut butter to the squirrels with their Papa and being walked to school, with a quick stop at Burger King for Breakfast Buddies.

He truly loved his family, and always found ways to make it known. His smile, his laughter, and his warm spirit will be sorely missed.

Richard is survived by his children, Deborah Pauke, Diane Gerald, and Keith (Cassandra Withrow) Pauke; sister Charlotte (Roy) Houston, sister Judy Pauke; grandchildren Aysha Gerald, Ryann Gerald, Jennifer (Joel) Hobson, Amanda (Charlie) Kivett, and Joseph Vickers; and great-grandchildren Nylah, Brandon, Aiden, Gavin, and Aaron.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Henry Pauke Jr.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with a funeral service immediately following at 12:00 p.m. at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park.