Richard J Tierney

Eighty-five years, eight months + 1 day - Veteran’s Day! 

What a great day to honor the life of a great man, our dad . . . Richard “Dick” Tierney . . . who passed on November 11, 2021. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Dad married his love, Bernice “Bea” Langel, shortly after serving in the Navy at Camp Pendleton. Their love for each other gave life to six kids in twelve years who all enjoyed a simple childhood in Rockford, IL, wanting for nothing (other than for dad to turn left after church which meant we were going to the donut shop).  Dad led our family with a quiet conviction that commanded respect, built character and made it clear there were consequences for your actions. He loved his bride, our mom, with all his heart until her last day 8 years ago, and in the process taught us what real love is. Like his attempts to teach us kids electronics in the basement, Dad told us he loved us thru his actions rather than words. He was a skilled X-Ray Technician for many years with GE but it was his sales abilities in insurance and electronics that enabled him to provide for his family and create a great retirement life for themselves in Roscoe, IL.  Dad’s personality came to light even more in the past 8 years which was a real treat for all of us kids to get to know him better individually, but which makes his passing even harder. How he approached the numerous medical issues he faced in his in final years and, in general how he lived his life, can be summed up in the last words he spoke – literally.  When we thought it was best to pause a minute while feeding him some liquids on his last day, he responded “Don’t Quit!” loud enough it could be heard in the next room.  Dad, you never quit and we’ll never quit loving you!  

He is now with his bride in Heaven and his son Tommy who he hasn’t seen in 61 years.  He is survived by his kids,  Karen, Steve (Susan), Dan (Kris), Michael and Joe (Tina); his 5 grandkids, Farrahn, Morgan, Tiffany, Jarrett, and Ryan; and his 3 great-grandkids. 

Services to honor Dad will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, November 20, 2021 in Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory - Roscoe Chapel, 11342 Main Street, Roscoe with a visitation from 1:00 pm until time of service. Private family burial in Roscoe Township Cemetery.

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