Richard Edward Donlea, 59, of Chicago, passed away on March 30, 2026.
Richard was born on June 26, 1966, in Park Ridge to Lynne Marie Bullat and Brian Francis Donlea. He was raised in the Edgebrook neighborhood of Chicago, where he formed lifelong roots and friendships.
On September 4, 1999, Richard married the love of his life, Deborah Anne Donlea. Together they shared over 26 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on love, laughter, and family.
Richard dedicated much of his career to his family’s business, Dura Shield Companies / United Structural of Illinois. He also proudly served his community as an Officer, Sergeant, and ultimately Chief of Police for the Hebron Police Department in Hebron for 11 years. He carried himself with integrity, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility to those he served.
Above all, Richard was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and great-uncle. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, especially during cherished vacations to Sanibel. He loved golfing, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, and making those around him laugh. Richard will be remembered for his infectious laugh, playful sense of humor, and the unforgettable pranks he loved to pull. His deep love and pride for his children, nieces, and nephews will never be forgotten.
Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah Anne Donlea; his children, Kaleigh, Jacob, Lindsey, and Zachary; his father, Brian Francis Donlea, and stepmother, Sandee Donlea; his siblings, Patrick (Kelly), Charlie (Amy), and Mary (Chris); and his nieces and nephews: Sidney, Brian, and Elise (children of Patrick); Abigail and Nolan (children of Charlie); and Lillian and Finnegan (children of Mary). He was preceded in death by his mother, Lynne Marie Bullat.
He is also lovingly remembered by his extended family on Deborah’s side, including her mother, Irene; Richard (Monica), Suzanne (Emmet), Michael, and Marilyn (Michael); and his nieces and nephews: Lauren and Stephanie (children of Richard); Amanda and Melanie (children of Suzanne); and Danielle, Mikey, and Matthew (children of Marilyn).
He is further survived by his cherished great-nieces and nephews: Cooper, Addison, Emerson, Jameson, Kennedy, Maeve, Callan, Chase, Beau, and Warren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at DeFiore Funeral Home on June 14, 2026, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a service at 12:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Richard’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter (Rockford), P.O. Box 2136, Loves Park, IL 61111.
Richard will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.
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Our hearts go out to your family. Sending love and prayers your way. Holding good thoughts of Rich in mind.
Sending hearts and prayers to family and friends.