Richard E. Marek
Richard “Dick” Marek, age 77, of Lake Bluff, IL, died peacefully on October 10, 2025, at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital.
He was born on November 10, 1947, in Chicago to Edwin and Elsie Marek. He attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), where he studied electrical engineering. During his college years, he met the love of his life, Marge, who was attending a nearby school. They married shortly after graduation and shared 55 years together.
Dick was a certified professional engineer working for ComEd for 32 years in various positions. After his retirement in 2001, he dedicated much of his time to giving back to the community. He was a devoted hospital volunteer at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, where he accumulated more than 2,500 hours of service.
A proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Dick celebrated 17 years of sobriety. He found purpose in helping others along their recovery journey and built lifelong friendships through the program.
Dick enjoyed spending time outdoors and on the golf course, proudly achieving a hole-in-one during his years of playing. He loved being at home in the backyard with his dog. Dick also had a love for the open road—whether taking long road trips across the country or simply driving around the streets of Chicago, he cherished the sense of freedom and discovery that came with being behind the wheel.
Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret “Marge”; his son, Dan (Katherine); his daughter, Lara Marek (Jeff Appeltans); his four grandchildren, Maille, Anna, Will Marek, and Flynn Appeltans; and two nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Robert.
The funeral will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Wenban Funeral Home, 320 Vine Ave., Lake Forest, IL. Visitation from 10:00–12:00; service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dick’s memory may be made to Waukegan Alano Club, 2419 Washington Street, Waukegan, IL 60085.
Live stream will begin at 11:30am showing the ending portion of the visitation.
October 16, 2025 – 12:00pm cst
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