Richard Victor Huelsman

Dick was raised in E. St. Louis and graduated from E. St. Louis HIgh School in 1957. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and he was a member of the American Legion Stookey Post 1255. For many years he was the manager of Basco Auto Parts. He enjoyed entering car shows; especially in Mascoutah each year. He loved to tinker, constantly working on projects or doing things around the house and in the yard. Affectionately called “Uncle Dickie Basco” by his nieces and nephews, he had a heart of gold and would always help family and friends. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother who will truly be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Rosella, nee Braun, Huelsman; his daughter, Laurie Huelsman; great grandchildren, Reese and Scotlyn Wyman; his brothers, Jim and David Huelsman; his special aunt and uncle, Eunice and Vic Braun; and sisters-in-law, Barb Huelsman and Marie White.

Surviving to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 58 years, Judy Huelsman, nee Schaffer, of Belleville, Illinois; his children, Bobby (Georgia) Huelsman, of Fayettville, Illinois and Kathleen (Jim) Riggs, of Edwardsville, Illinois; his grandchildren, Kimmi (Casey) Wyman, RJ (Kait) Huelsman, Alex Riggs, and Jack Riggs; his great grandchildren, Brennan and Brooks, and baby Trae; a brother, Hank Huelsman, of Cahokia Heights, Illinois; a sister, Marilyn (Tom) Ernst, of The Villages, Florida; his sisters-in-law, Pat Huelsman, of Fairview Heights, Illinois, Cyndi Huelsman, of Highland, Illinois, and Sue (Mel) Whittet, of Swansea, Illinois; a brother-in-law, Tommy Schaffer, of Kauai, Hawaii; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Dick is also survived by his classic 1962 Chevrolet Impala, which he bought brand new prior to starting his family.

Memorials are appreciated in the form of Masses to Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Condolences may also be expressed online at www.valhallagardensandfuneralhome.com.

Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Belleville, Illinois, Father Matthew Elie presiding. Celebration of Life will follow the service.