Richard C. "Rich" Runyon

Richard C. Runyon “Rich”, age 82 passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Nov. 23rd, 2025. Cherished husband of Colleen Runyon, nee King, and devoted father of Paula (late Ted) Dybas, Jana Runyon, Kelly Runyon, and Sean Runyon. He was preceded in death by his father Charles, mother Elsie, sister Lois, and brothers Bob and John. Rich was also a fond brother-in-law to Pat (late Frank) Weitz, Sharon (John Edwards) King, Maureen (Jack) Pochron, Sheila Stull, and Kevin (Theresa) King and leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and great nieces & nephews.

Rich was a proud United States Navy Veteran. He worked for the railroad for 30 enjoyable years. He started on the Rock Island Railroad, working his way up to Chief Mechanical Officer at Metra.

Throughout his life, Rich had a love of the outdoors. He took great pleasure in riding motorcycles and snowmobiling in the Northwoods of Wisconsin and Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He especially enjoyed his shirt-less time in the sun and country music. Rich was known as "Mr. Fix it" to Colleen and many others, always helping out family, friends, and neighbors.

Family and friends were a big part of Rich's life. He found joy in playing golf and coaching baseball throughout the years. An avid Chicago Bears fan, he took his game tickets and tailgating very seriously no matter the weather. He saw the 1985 Super Bowl game in New Orleans, a memory he relished.

Rich’s life will be celebrated Sunday, November 30, 2025 from 1-4 p.m. with a short service at 4 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, IL. on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 12:00 Noon. Everyone is asked to gather at the cemetery no later than 11:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Pathlights, 7808 W. College Dr., #5E, Palos Heights, IL 60463 or Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, 8430 Bryn Mawr, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60631 are appreciated.  To donate online, please visit the links below.  

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400