Richard E. Combs, "Dick", 84; librarian, consultant, author; raised in Seymour, IN; passed away peacefully May 24, 2018 at home in Chicago. After a stint in the Navy aboard the U.S.S. Ajax and earning his B.A. in English from Indiana University/Bloomington and his M.L.S. from Columbia University, Richard headed several major public libraries, including Newport, RI; Northbrook, IL; Gary, IN; and the Chicago Public Librarys Cultural Center. Soon after authoring the award-winning reference/research book "Authors Critical and Biographical Reference", Richard co-founded CombsMoorhead Associates, based in Chicago, with partner John Moorhead. The consulting firm was at the forefront of the competitive intelligence movement and provided corporate Fortune 500 managers with information and data needed for making tactical and strategic business decisions. Richard and his partner co-authored the well-regarded "The Competitive Intelligence Handbook". Beloved husband of Karin Donahue, dear step-father of Meghan (Michael Bates) Donahue; brother of Kelly (Russell) Abram; former spouse of Adele Combs; uncle of Thomas (Altha), Michael (May), and Karen Arden, great-uncle of Lori and Kris Arden. Richards family and friends will miss his insightful intellect, wit, generosity and kindness of spirit. Services are private. Donations in his memory can be made to K9s for Warriors, https://www.k9sforwarriors.org. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Illinois, 773-281-5058 or www.cremation-society.com. Funeral Home: Chicago - Addison Street 736 W. Addison Street Chicago, IL US 60613