Richard Patrick Dust

Richard P. "Dick" Dust age 81 of Thornton, departed peacefully in his sleep at the Manteno VA Home, October 1. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years Joyce (nee Kuhel), his children Richie (Sandy), Debbie (Dr. Michael Jones) and Chris (Michelle), a brother Fred (Joan), grandchildren Elise, Lindsey, Hayden and Camille and numerous nieces and nephews.

Originally from Chicago's East Side neighborhood, Dick was a US Army Vietnam War veteran who served in the 9th Infantry Division as a helicopter crew chief. He was a past Commander of Thornton American Legion Post 1070, member of the Lemont VFW post 5819, member of the Southeast Side Vietnam Veterans Association, the Mobile Riverine Force Association and the Vietnam Helicopter Crew Members Association. A graduate of Mendel Catholic High School, he worked as a foreman at Wisconsin Steel until its closure and then BTL Specialty Resins until he retired, after which time he drove the parts delivery truck for Webb Ford. Dick was an expert mechanic and loved working on cars, especially antique Fords. In true South Side fashion, he was a die-hard White Sox fan who coached little league baseball and t-ball. When football season rolled around, much to the disappointment of his brother Fred, he was an avid supporter of the Green Bay Packers. When it came to animals, he was a kind and gentle soul who kept all of the backyard birds and squirrels fed. He loved and cared for many cats and dogs over the years - especially his best buddy kitty, Dusty. Truly the life of every party, Dick's pranks, his sense of humor and larger than life personality will be remembered fondly by all who had the occasion to meet and laugh along with him. He was broadly loved and will surely be missed by many.

Resting at the Tews-Ryan Funeral Home, 18230 Dixie Highway, Homewood, IL. 60430 Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until time of service beginning at 5:00 p.m. Military Honors and Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery at a later date. For further information, please contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.