Richard Robert Konarski, 67, of Kenosha, Wisconsin passed away bravely and peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2025, surrounded by the love and strength of his family. Though he left this earth too soon, his spirit will live on in the hearts of daughters Stephanie (Juan) and Melissa (Shane), his son Robert, sisters Kimberley (Richard), Karen and Kathy (Robert). His grandchildren Michael, Gianna, Anthony, Ethan, Vincent, Nicholas, Aiden, Giovanni and great grandchildren, Jaylah and Damon, beloved nieces, nephews, aunt, cousins and countless friends.
Affectionately known as Ricky or Rick by his family and Rich by his buddies and colleagues, he was the second child of his late parents, Richard and Priscilla. Born on June 27, 1957, he was raised in Chicago’s Peterson Woods neighborhood and baptized at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church. He attended Minnie Mars Jamieson Grade School and Stephen Tyng Mather High School.
Rick’s journey through life was one of passion and deep connections. He married beautiful Pamela, with whom he had two daughters, later divorced. Time passed, he reunited and married his school sweetheart, Barbara and together they had a son.
As a child, Ricky had a knack for adventure-building back yard plywood forts, exploring as a Scout, fixing and riding minibikes, and cruising the neighborhood in loud hot rods. His work ethic developed early, starting as a newsboy pushing a wooden wagon to deliver papers, then working at Chicken Unlimited and Kentucky Fried Chicken. Over the years, he wore many hats-as a Merchandiser with his father’s R&K Signs and Displays business, managing at Nationwide Papers, running his limousine livery service, and delivery for Rick’s Floral.
Rich’s legendary built-in navigational skills led him to a long career as a Courier for Chicago Messenger and Dynamix, crisscrossing cities and states on demanding routes with ease. Lastly, he found great fulfillment as a Medical Transport Driver and Logistical Scheduling Manager at Southport, where he was admired for his calm composure, multi-tasking abilities, and problem-solving skills.
A true car buff and mechanic at heart, whose passion for classic cars was second to none. Weekends were often spent thrifting for Craftsman and Snap-on tools with his sister. Rick enjoyed fishing, going to the range and meeting friends to discuss current events.
An old-fashioned kind of guy, Rick preferred phone calls over text messages, believing that real connections came from hearing a familiar voice. The highlight of his day was receiving calls from his grandchildren, family and friends. Evenings at home were often spent watching the Discovery channel and laughing together watching the Big Bang Theory with his son, cherishing those quiet moments. He enjoyed breakfast dining out at Tommy’s and meeting his sister at Cracker Barrel for special occasions.
Rich lived a simple yet fulfilling life. Life was good surrounded by nearby family and friends. He was known for his big heart, easygoing nature and sharp sense of humor. If you had a chance to know him, you were lucky to love him. He will be truly missed by all.
A Celebration of Ricky’s Life will be held at a later date when friends and family can gather to share memories and honor his legacy.
