Richard “Dick” Schmaedeke, a compassionate and devoted funeral director who comforted grieving families for more than 60 years, died on August 26, 2025. He was 86.
Born in 1939 in Orland Park, Illinois, Dick grew up in the home that doubled as the community’s first funeral home, founded by his parents, Orville and Martha Schmaedeke. From them, he learned the values of reverence, respect, and ritual — lessons that guided his life’s work at Schmaedeke Funeral Homes in Worth and Orland Park.
Renowned for his professionalism and empathy, Dick became a steady source of comfort for thousands of families during their most difficult moments. Beyond his work, he was a man who elevated daily life, whether by giving unusual gifts, creating new traditions, or finding ways to bring joy to ordinary moments.
Dick shared a lifelong love of music, dance, sailing, travel, and drumming. He was abundantly generous with his time and resources, serving on the boards of Sertoma, the Worth Lions Club, the Palos Heights and Orland Park Chambers of Commerce, and Palos Bank. He was also a U.S. Air Force Reserves veteran.
Dick is survived by his beloved wife of more than 40 years, Janeen (née Wall), who cared for him with devotion through his illness. He was the loving father of Randy Schmaedeke, Rhonda (Tyson) Waneka, and the late Reed Schmaedeke; cherished stepfather of Patrick Barnes (Jennifer Talbot) and Kara (William) Westphal; and fond grandfather of Madison (John) Conkin, Caroline Reed, Mia and Keely Collins, and Jace Waneka. He was step-grandfather of Colette and Finnley Barnes, and Grace, Maggie and Aiden Mintle; and great-grandfather of Remi Conkin. He was the dear brother of the late Barbara (David) Sheldon; treasured brother-in-law of Fr. Jack Wall, Jim Wall, and Mary Kay Wall; and a caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Visitation and Funeral Mass: Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, beginning at 4 p.m. at Old St. Patrick’s Church, 700 W. Adams, Chicago. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 5 p.m. Complimentary parking available at 625 S. DesPlaines (pull Old St. Patrick’s ticket upon entry). The Mass will be live-streamed at https://livestream.oldstpats.org/funerals-and-memorials/events/dick-schmaedeke.
Private burial will take place Thursday, Sept. 4.