Richard Wood Lanigan

Richard Wood Lanigan, age 92, of Palatine, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 19, 2023. He was born November 3, 1930 in Oak Lawn,IL to James Wood Lanigan and Ethel(nee McPartland).

Richard grew up in Lombard, IL and was a graduate of Glenbard High School where he played football. Born the son of James Lanigan who was a bassist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the original Austin High Gang jazz band, Richard had an instilled love of music. However, his true passion was for art and he always wanted to be an artist. After graduating in 1948, he proudly joined the Army and met his first wife Diane, while stationed in Fort Riley and attending Kansas State University. After his discharge from the army he and Diane moved to Los Angeles, CA where he attended the Art Center School of Design on a Ford Scholarship. The couple then returned to the Chicago area and raised their four children in Arlington Heights. Richard(Dick) worked for Bell & Howell and later American Hospital Supply before starting his own business; Richard Lanigan Design Consultants.

Upon retirement he sold his historic Chicago home in Lincoln Park which he enjoyed renovating and moved to Eureka Springs, Arkansas. There he renovated and designed an addition to an original log cabin. He was very proud of the two homes he completely renovated during his lifetime. In addition to design, he loved watercolor painting, classical music, and cooking. Richard also volunteered for the Hospice organization, served as an usher at Opera in the Ozarks, was a member of the Rotary Club, and volunteered his time teaching art at the local elementary school.

In his most recent years, Richard moved to Palatine to be close to family. He will be missed dearly and will be remembered by many for wearing his suit coat and tie each day; his passion for learning; love of art, music, & animals; his gentle, kind demonear, and most of all his love for his family and friends.

Richard was a loving father and cherished grandfather. He is survived by son, James Lanigan and daughter, Rachel(Wayne)Hogreve. Grandchildren: Magan(Tito)Reyes, Michelle(Drew) Westall-Lanigan, Baron(Charlotte) Medenwald, Danae(fiance Michael) Lanigan, Isis Lanigan, Eric(Ana) Haug, Ryan Haug, and David Fernquist; ten great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his cousin Haydon(Kathy) McPartland, his former wife Diane Lanigan, and many friends. Richard was preceded in death by his son Gregory Wood Lanigan and daughter Sarah Ellen Haug; his parents; and brothers John & James.

A celebration of life service is being planned with the date still to be determined.