Richard Don Freckelton, age 59, of Lansing, Illinois peacefully passed away at his home on January 7, 2024. His love and compassion will be missed by all who loved him: his family, friends, and even the people who were about to be his new friends. He was the son to JoAnn Freckelton; outgoing and lovable brother of Bill Henderson, Michael (Vicki) Henderson, Glenn (Aulaire) Freckelton, Christine Kaim, and Lori (Doug) Schroeter; brother-in-law to Jeff Price; generous and fun-loving uncle to Christopher, Devin, Jared, Shawn, Alayna, Taylor, and Lindsay; great-uncle to several great-nieces and nephews.  Richard was preceded in death by his father, Raymond, and his sisters  Kathy Price and Karen Freckelton.

Richard was born in Harvey, Illinois. He grew up in Lansing, Illinois and graduated from Thornton Fractional South High School. He later started working maintenance for The Archdiocese of Chicago at Seton Academy in South Holland, Illinois, and eventually went on to work maintenance in the health care sector.

Richard was a longtime fan of many Chicago sports teams, including the Bulls, Bears, and Blackhawks; but he always had a special place in his heart for “his” Chicago Cubs.  Richard enjoyed taking fishing trips with friends around the Midwest. He could often be found socializing with friends at many of Lansing’s social establishments, which may have earned him the nickname of “The Norm of Lansing.”  

Richard was a man whose heart knew no bounds. To him, there were no strangers, only friends he hadn't yet met. With an innate charm and a genuine interest in those around him, he forged connections effortlessly, leaving a trail of friendship and laughter in his wake. His presence was larger than life, characterized by a booming voice that resonated not just through rooms, but through the hearts of those he touched. Richard's love for life was unfaltering. Those who had the fortune to know him understand what it means to be truly blessed. Richard's legacy is not just in the memories we hold dear, but also in the lives he enriched simply by being himself. He will be deeply missed, but the echo of his laughter and the imprint of his warmth will endure forever in our hearts.

In honor of Richard's own way of living, unconventionally and fully, we will forego the traditional ceremonies of farewell. He wished for no visitation or public service, preferring instead to be remembered in joyful reflection and celebration. In time, we will gather to honor his memory with a Celebration of Life, where stories will be shared, laughter will echo, and the essence of Richard's spirit will be felt by all. The date for this gathering will be announced later, giving friends and family a chance to join together in tribute to a life extraordinarily lived.

The family is deeply touched by the overwhelming wave of love, prayers, and kindness that has flowed in Richard's honor. Your condolences have been a source of comfort and strength in this time of sorrow. We express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for your compassionate support.

Schroeder-Lauer Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements and care of Richard.

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