Peter L. Richards

Peter “Pete” Lloyd Richards, 81, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026. 

Born on October 19, 1944, Pete grew up in Chicago, Illinois in the Logan Square neighborhood followed by a move to Rosemont, Illinois in his teenage years. He would eventually make his way out to Mount Prospect, Illinois to raise his family. He was the beloved son of the late Lloyd Richards and Ermaline "Lee" Richards, and brother of the late Patricia Leverick and Peggy DeLuca.

Pete proudly served his country as a United States Marine and Vietnam veteran. Following his military service, he enjoyed a successful career as a Creative Art Director in advertising before establishing his own business. Pete was the devoted husband of the late Joan Richards (née Stankowitz), with whom he built a life centered on family, friendship, and tradition. 

He is survived by their loving daughters, Christy (Matt) Shebuski and their daughters Grace and Charlotte; and by Bethany (Jay) Ure and their sons Luke and Nicolas, who were his greatest source of pride. Pete will be remembered as his daughters’ biggest supporter and loudest cheerleader. He celebrated their achievements as if they were his own and never missed an opportunity to tell others how proud he was of them. His greatest accomplishment was his family, and his love for them was evident in everything he did.

Pete was also a proud and loving grandfather. Known to the family as "Poppy," he delighted in spoiling his grandchildren, attending their games and activities, celebrating birthdays and holidays, and creating memories they will cherish forever. A loyal friend and neighbor, Pete spent more than 50 years on the same block of South William Street and was deeply rooted in his neighborhood. He loved golf and was a longtime member of the Mount Prospect Golf Club, where friends affectionately knew him as "Hotdog Pete." He was an avid model train builder and collector, a history buff, a diehard Chicago Cubs, Bears and Fighting Illini fan. He enjoyed Friday night pizza, dancing to Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles, and his beloved red Corvette. Most of all, he treasured family dinners, holiday traditions, and time spent together. Above all else, Pete was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His loyalty, strength, generosity, storytelling, and unwavering commitment to family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on through the traditions he cherished and the family he adored.

A Visitation and Celebration of Life will be held Friday, August 28, 2026, from 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 S. Talcott Road, Park Ridge, Illinois. All are invited to stay and raise a toast in honor of Pete's life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.