Richard "Dick" Mead

Richard K. Mead, 88, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at Liberty Village; he was a cherished son, brother and uncle. He was born on October 18, 1936, the only son of Ray (Pat) Mead and Florence (Lower) Mead in Freeport, IL. 

Richard is survived by his loving sister, Joanne (Skeeter) Knodle, nephew, Gregg (Kathy) Knodle and niece, Luann Stewart and their families who affectionately referred to him as “Uncle Dick.” Dick also leaves behind additional nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his lifelong friend, Ron Dascher. 

Richard was proceeded in death by his parents, his stepmother, Helen Mead, sisters Dolores Opatz, Phyllis Romeo and Joyce Mead who passed shortly after birth. Furthermore, he was proceeded by his nephews Bill Lighthall in 2020 and Scott Stewart in 2024. 

Richard joined the United States Navy in 1954 and served for eight years, he then served as a Merchant Marine and for the remaining sixteen years of his military career he was in the United States Coast Guard, retiring in 1981 as a Senior Chief Quartermaster. Over the course of his armed services career, he was deployed on nine different ships and land stations. During his years of military service, he received numerous medals of honor that included the Antarctic Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation for Vietnam Gallantry and Civil Action Medals, Coast Guard Good Conduct Award, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Bronze Star for National Defense.

His memory will be cherished by his family, he was a devoted brother and uncle and will be remembered as kind, generous, gentle and giving. 

A private military style family funeral will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Cremation rights have been accorded, and his final resting place will be Oakland Cemetery Mausoleum. We would like to thank Liberty Village and Hospice for his care over the last couple of months.