Richard Paul Vasquez

RICHARD P. VASQUEZ, 72, of Chester, Illinois, passed away at 11:42 am, Sunday, May 12, 2024 at Memorial Hospital, Chester, Illinois.

He was born to the late Richard and Mary Ellen (nee Daniel) on July 17, 1951 in Chester, Illinois.

Richard married Laura Darnstaedt on June 5, 1971; she survives.

He had worked as a Locomotive Engineer for Union Pacific for 40 years.

Richard was of the Catholic Faith. He was also a member of the Eagles Club Aerie #3252 in Chester.

Survivors:

Wife:

Laura Vasquez Chester, IL

2 Children:

Jennifer (Clay) Lowery Gulf Shores, AL

Jason (Rachel) Vasquez Chester, IL

Mother-in-law:

Nora Darnstaedt (Favorite Mother-in-law)

4 Siblings:

Kay (Larry) Fox

Ruth Vasquez

Jean (Rick) O’Dell

Lynn (Wayne) Gerler

7 Grandchildren:

Courtney Johnson (Chase Usher), Jared Johnson (Myrah Whittington), Landon Hornbostel, Olivia Vasquez, Codey Stewart, Brandy Stewart and Brittney (Marcus) Hurley

6 Great Grandchildren:

Makenzie, Makayla, Makhi, Makalyn, Colson and Mya

1 Great Grandchild Due June 2024

Many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends

Richard was proud of the large Vasquez family and his heritage with 67 first cousins and 180 second cousins and so many who followed.

Preceded in Death by: Parents and Father-in-law – Lawrence Darnstaedt

It was Richard’s wish to be cremated. A Graveside Service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, May 17, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Chester, Illinois with Pastor Rick Sutton officiating. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately at the V.F.W. in Chester.

Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Church in Chester and are being accepted at Pechacek Funeral Home in Chester.