Richard "Dick" William Gertz

Richard “Dick” William Gertz, age 86, passed away on March 7, 2024 at his home in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where he resided since 1980. Dick was born in Chicago, Illinois to Harold Edgar and Loraine Gertz on October 22, 1937. He is survived by his wife Lana Gertz; his sons William (Tanya) Harold Gertz and Robert (Jennifer Simpson) Richard Gertz; and his grandson Eli Paul Gertz. Dick was a loving husband to Lana for 57 years, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Loraine Gertz.

He had a diverse career, starting as a Procurement Manager and culminating as an Executive Vice President for LG Associates Inc. Having worked in a variety of industries, he established national contracts for The Greyhound Corporations and AM International, purchased all the materials for the Award and Trophy Company who made the Oscars and Emmys, and opened a new coal mine to supply the Tennessee Valley Authority with nuclear, coals, natural gas, and renewables. Additionally, he worked in aviation, safety, plastics, electrical high voltage equipment, optical, and paint areas.

Dick was also a member of many organizations, including National Purchasing Management-Chicago (NAPM-CHICAGO), The Institute for Supply Management, the American Purchasing Society Inc, and Northgate Civic Organization. He was recognized by The Institute for Supply Management and NAPM-Chicago as a Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) and the American Purchasing Society as a Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP).

Dick lived a full, energetic life. He was a long-time member of United Church of Christ, served in the Military Army Reserves, and was a past member of the VFW. He received his B.A. from Parsons College; attended the Dale Carnegie Effective Speaking and Human Relations course; Dale Carnegie Sales Course; along with various seminars and courses at Northwestern University, University of Wisconsin, ITT, and other colleges and organizations. Dick was an enthusiastic learner and enjoyed taking courses later in life at Harper College Lifelong Learning Institute, even becoming a member of the Steering Committee.

Dick was known for liking jokes, good or bad, and always up for a celebration. He will be remembered as charismatic, devoted to his family, and “Mr. Wonderful” to his friends and family. Dick was young at heart and love to travel. He reached his goal of visiting all 50 states, which was a dream that began with childhood trips with his parents. He was proud and passionate about his family. Especially during Christmas, Dick was fond of spreading joy and happiness, often sharing his love for gift giving, nutmeg, and dancing to Johnny Cash with his family. He also spread Christmas joy while being a member of West Big Oaks community organizations, which distributed Christmas food baskets to people experiencing poverty.

Dick will be dearly missed by his loving family and friends. Please share your memories and condolences on the Tribute Wall.

The family will greet friends on Thursday, Mar. 14, 9 AM to 11 AM at the Glueckert Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held after visitation at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Mount Emblem Cemetery, Elmhurst, Illinois.

Funeral information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFH.com or (847) 253-0168.