Richard “Dick” Killian, 94, of Streator, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 10, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his children.

  Known for his sweet, cheerful nature and warm smile, Dick was easy to like and a delight to be around. His friendly demeanor and charm served as a welcome mat for those he encountered. He could strike up a conversation with anyone about anything; truly personifying the expression, “never met a stranger.” No one was unworthy of his attention, respect, and grace. He valued relationships and spending time with people.

  A butcher by trade, Dick was a man of many talents. He was a gifted writer and artist and incredibly creative. Throughout his life, he penned hundreds of poems for special occasions and life’s simple moments alike. His drawings and cartoons were often both touching and humorous. He enjoyed sharing his love of drawing with his kids, grandkids, and nieces and nephews, encouraging them to develop their own masterpieces.

  His humor was original and iconic. He combined gentle jokes with true fun. Employing physical stunts, goofy gags, and running one-liners, he brought joy to the world around him. He inspired people to embrace a lighter side of life. And his personality and presence made those around him feel better, laugh out loud, and be happy.

  Dick found ways to appreciate the simple, small things in the world. He could find beauty in the ordinary and enjoyment in the mundane. And he freely expressed gratitude and compliments.

  An avid sports fan, Dick was a long-time Chicago Cubs and Bears fan but could become quickly engrossed in any game or match. However, his favorite teams and sporting events were those in which his children and then grandchildren were playing.

  His support of his kids and grandkids often manifested itself by his presence at their games, but extended to frequent visits, walks, and around-the-table conversations, too.

  Dick loved fishing, especially in the mighty Padre Island, TX waves where he and his beloved wife, Ella, vacationed in their golden years. She was his best friend and life-long companion.  

  Together they created a home bursting with love and laughter. At the corner of North Otter Creek and Bronson, Dick and Ella moved into their home next to Ella’s childhood home in 1960. It became a haven to which their kids and grandkids would frequently return with love and excitement. Dick and Ella enjoyed holidays, reunions, and in-between time at this special place, often in conjunction with Ella’s late sisters Aggie and Clara "Coga" Majernik. They leave behind a treasure trove of memories for their family.

  Dick was a faithful man who, along with Ella, attended daily Mass and Rosary while they were still able. He was an active member of the former St. Stephen’s Parish, serving as Athletic Director at the school for 15 years and as an officer and member of the Parents Club. He later was an usher and eucharist minister at church. His faith life extended beyond church, living out his Christian values daily. He celebrated the sacraments faithfully and received comfort in sharing them with family and friends.

  Dick was both a hero and a humorist and equal parts fun-loving and faith-filled. He was also humble, never seeking to be the center of attention. Naturally, though, people gravitated towards him for his kindness, wit, and sincerity. He was admired and adored by his children and grandchildren.

  His was a life well-lived.  And those who were fortunate enough to love and be loved by him were better off for it and will be forever grateful for their time spent with him. He will be missed dearly.

  Born January 21, 1930 in Towanda, IL, Dick was the son of Daniel and Anna (Dwyer) Killian. They moved to Streator when Dick was in his later grade school years. He attended St. Anthony’s School and Streator High School. After graduation, he joined the army. He was stationed in Fort Hood, Texas for most of his army years. He had fond memories of his time in the service, returning to Fort Hood several times later in life.

  After the army, Dick began work as a butcher at the Piggly Wiggly grocery store on Main Street in Streator. It was there he met and fell in love with Ella Majernik, the check-out girl. They were married on November 24, 1957. Their 66-year marriage was an inspiration and joy to behold.

  Dick’s life will be celebrated in a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, June 17, at 10 am at St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church, Streator. (Now located at 411 S. Park Street.) Msgr. Philip Halfacre will preside.

  Visitation will be from 2-5 pm on Sunday June 16 at Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Streator.  The rosary will be recited at 4:45 pm. Additional visitation will be from 8:30-9:30 am on Monday, June 17th at Solon-Telford Funeral Home.

  Burial will be in St. Stephen’s Cemetery in Streator. Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Brendan, Kevin, and Sean Killian; Leo Heinz; Lincoln and Guy Johnson; and nephew, David Kaplan.

  He is survived by daughters, Jane Killian of St. Louis, Missouri, Peggy (Andrew) Heinz of St. Louis, Missouri, Mary (Jeff) Johnson of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; sons, Richard (Cindy) Killian of Streator, Patrick (Jackie) Killian of Wheaton; sister, Eleanor Corrigan of Streator; and sister-in-law, Marjorie Killian of Streator; grandchildren, Leo (Emma) Heinz of Chicago, Zoe Heinz of St. Louis; Daisy, Lincoln, Guy and Dashiell Johnson of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin; Kaitlyn, Riley, Kendal and Lily Killian of Streator, Brendan Killian of New Jersey, Kevin and Bridget Killian of Chicago, and Sean Killian of Wheaton; and great-grandson, Jerimiah Killian of Streator.
  Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Ella; daughter Cathy; his parents; a sister, Rosemary Shackley and brothers Donald and Maurice Killian.

  Memorials may be directed to St. Michael the Archangel Church.

  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.solontelford.com