RICHARD STORZ SCHMAEDEKE

An illustrious man of uncommon compassion, Dick Schmaedeke comforted those who mourned by honoring those they loved and lost. He served for 60+ years as a licensed funeral director/owner of Schmaedeke Funeral Homes in Worth & Orland Park, IL.

Dick was renowned for his exceptionally high professional standards which he learned from his parents, Orville & Martha, founders of the very first funeral home in Orland Park. That home also served as the Schmaedeke family home where Dick was born in 1939 and grew up with an ever-deepening appreciation for the power of respect, ritual and reverence to lift families through the experience of death.

Dick also elevated the experience of life — giving unusual gifts at unexpected times, shining light on everyone but himself, building up his community and livening up ordinary moments with some new tradition. He also pursued his passions for music, dance, sailing, playing the drums and adventurous travel with his beloved Janeen.

Abundantly generous to many charitable causes in Chicago and his South Suburban community, Dick also served on the boards of Sertoma, the Worth Lions Club, the Palos Heights & Orland Park Chambers of Commerce, and Palos Bank. He was a U.S Air Force Reserves veteran.

On August 26, 2025, Dick went to God.

Beloved husband of Janeen (nee Wall) for over 40 years who cared for Dick devotedly through his illness. Loving father of Randy Schmaedeke, Rhonda (Tyson) Waneka, and the late Reed Schmaedeke. Cherished stepfather of Patrick Barnes (Jennifer Talbot) and Kara (William) Westphal. Fond grandfather of Madison (John) Conkin, and Caroline Reed, Mia and Keely Collins, and Jace Waneka. Step-grandfather of Colette and Finnley Barnes and Grace, Maggie and Aidan Mintle. Great-grandfather of Remi Conkin. Dear brother of the late Barbara (the late David) Sheldon. Treasured brother-in-law of Fr. Jack Wall, Jim Wall and Mary Kay Wall. Caring uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Visitation Wednesday, Sept ember 3, 2025 at 4PM Old St. Patrick’s Church, 700 W. Adams, Chicago until 5pm Mass of Christian Burial. Complimentary parking available at 625 W. Adams, entrance on DesPlaines St just south of Adams on east side of street. Pull Old St. Patrick’s ticket upon entry.

Mass will be live-streamed at https://livestream.oldstpats.org/funerals-and-memorials/events/dick-schmaedeke Private burial on Thursday, Sept 4.