William Richards Obituary

William "Bill" Richards
Died: April 2, 2024
On April 2, 2024, William "Bill" Richards of Downers Grove, IL, died suddenly of heart failure at age 69. Beloved husband of Sandra, nee Wegner; loving father of Victoria (Jay) Maxwell and Beckett Richards; proud Grandfather of Wyatt, Finn, and Sutton; and dear brother of Claire and Carolyn (David), fond brother-in-law of David (Deborah). Preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Mary Frances Richards. Devoted Uncle to Joe (Courtney), Michael (Heather), Ryan (Ashley), Matt (Sunday), Luke (Faith), Jill (Kevin), and Sarah (Jeff). Born in Weatherford, Texas Bill stayed connected with friends and family with his monthly visits. While he called Downers Grove, IL, his home for the last 45 years he and Sandy enjoyed frequent travels in the US and abroad visiting many museums, historical landmarks, wineries and distilleries. He was President of North Star Family Office and founded BNR Partners Family Office. Additionally, he held prominent positions at Continental Illinois National Bank, LaSalle National Bank and American National Bank/Bank One. Bill received a BA from Carroll University, a MBA from Keller Graduate School, and a certificate in Ranch Management from King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management at Texas A & M University. He was a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and recently began a 2nd Masters program at TCU in Texas. Throughout his distinguished career, Bill found time to serve others. He was President of the Luminarts Cultural Foundation, Board member of both the Chicago Engineers Foundation and the Union League Club of Chicago, Treasurer of the Institute of Clinical Social Work, Member of the Business Advisory Council at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, and the Hektoen Institute of Medicine. He was currently the Vice Chair of the commission to build a COVID-19 Monument of Honor, Remembrance, and Resilience in Chicago. Bill was a dear friend to many. His sparkling wit and sharp humor provided entertainment to many with his stories. Bill will be missed most deeply. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending donations in Bill's memory to the COVID-19 Monument of Honor, Remembrance, & Resilience, of which Bill was the Vice Chair of the Commission at www.covidmemorialmonument.org or to Luminarts Cultural Foundation at www.luminarts.org. Memorial services pending for Sping of 2024. Arrangements entrusted to Adams Winterfield and Sullivan. For more details www.adamswinterfieldsullivan.com or (630) 968-1000.