He was born on September 22, 1942 to Earlen and Margaret Von Qualen.

Richard attended Good Farm grade school in rural Gardner and graduated from Dwight High School in 1960. He moved to Kempton and felt at home there. He attended Bailey Tech in St. Louis and started his working career at Gardners John Deere in Pontiac. He retired from Loders Croklaan in Joliet, IL after 40 years, previously known as Durkee Foods.

Richard served as village president for Kempton, IL for 17 years. He enjoyed seeing the Village grow and be a part of it as a Village Trustee.

Richard married Marjorie Piercey on January 13, 1968 and was by her side for 58 years. He is also survived by his son, Brett (Brenda) Von Qualen of Kempton; one daughter, Carrie (late Marvin Long Jr.) Long of Kempton; his grandchildren, Gretchen Long, Gerald Long, Jessica Monical, Hunter, Pru, and Phoebe; his brothers Virden (Mary) Von Qualen of Aurora and Gordon (Linda) Von Qualen of Gardner; and his sister-in-law Diana (Late Henry) Eggenberger of Saunemin; and his three nieces and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Jorie Lynne in 1976.

Richard was a proud member of the Saunemin Methodist Church, the Green Club out of Bonfield, IL, and the Slow Boys out of Gilman, IL. He had a passion for tractors and loved to work on them and take them to parades and events. Richard would enjoy his winters in Travelers Rest in Dade City, FL. He was a special Husband, Dad and Grandpa. He will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

Services for Richard will begin on Friday, July 24, 2026 at the Saunemin Methodist Church, 90 North Street, in Saunemin, with a visitation from 4pm-7pm. Services continue the following day, Saturday, July 25, 2026 with a brief visitation from 10am until the time of the funeral service at 11am. The family also requests that all visitors come in casual clothing.

Richard will be laid to rest at Broughton Cemetery in Emington, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Riverside Healthcare Cancer Center in Coal City in Richard’s name would be appreciated.”