Thank you for being such an important part of my life. You will not be forgotten. You inspired me to be a teacher, because you gave your all. You believed in our potential. Thank you for everything. ❤️

In memory of the BEST teacher Richard S. Wegren  a person could ever have I definitely went into my high school storage and pulled these items out. My Orchestra memories of when I was a student of Mr.Wegren.  I can certainly say I had some very good memories. Mr.Wegren was awesome, his love for music and most importantly his commitment to all of his students. Mr. Wegren really did go the extra mile to teach me the "REAL" meaning of music. He was hard on us all but because he saw potential in us all. Mr.Wegren was very loved and respected. You will be missed Mr.Wegren thank you from the bottom of my heart for alllllllll you did for me and all of us.       Maestro Wegren I know your in heaven with full force on the baton. 🎶 🎵 🎼🎻🎻🎻🎻
#Orchestra Days 1996-2000  #Maestro Wegren #A love for music I didn't know i had #Schurz #Bulldogs #Blessed having a teacher of his kind 💜💛💜💛💜💛💜💛

Rick will always be my big brother.  Our fun childhood memories include epic Pillow Fights (He always went easy on me), those “Let’s sneak down the stairs” excursions from our bedroom when we were supposed to be sleeping, and those races home from Our Lady of Grace School for a quick lunch and debate on what kids TV show to watch – “Uncle Johnny Coons” or “The Happy Pirates”.
Rick was a master at memorizing all the Western TV Show Theme Songs and the weekly TV Guides so that we could cruise shows without watching a commercial.  
But it was Rick’s lifelong love of music that was so special.  It started when our grandfather gave him his first trumpet and blossomed with a wonderful career in music.  As kids we played tons of piano duets and growing up I got to be his piano accompanist in trumpet competitions and recitals. As a teen, Rick was a member of the Chicago Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps and we travelled around the country supporting his performances.  When we attended De Paul University Music School, Rick, as an upperclassman, watched over his little brother through the challenges of his “rookie” Freshman Year.
One of the most memorable experiences was our collaboration on the Tschaikowsky Piano Concerto.  His comprehensive knowledge of the score was a given.  But his rapport with the orchestra was outstanding.  The students were clearly inspired by Rick’s interpretive insights and gave 100% musical effort.  And his gifted humor and “Tender Tyrant” approach effortlessly heightened the students’ artistry.  For example:  Rick’s threat of using the “SPOCK HOLD” on students worked wonders  -“Mr. Wegren, I promise to practice harder – please don’t give that Spock hold”!  
Rick’s Tender Tyrant tactics and insightful wit is beautifully complemented by his dear wife.  Connie & Rick – what a super team!  And Mark & Amy – you continue this fabulous legacy.

Rick, you’re always in my heart, Big Bro’.
Love you, Tom


Wishing my dear musician friend and DePaul classmate eternal peace. My condolences to Rich’s family. 

Frank Tesinsky 

I had the pleasure to work with Richard, Schurz High School. Such a talented and gifted teacher. More importantly a wonderful man with a engaging and warm smile. Rest in peace. So happy we met. My condolences to all who loved him and who he loved. Cathy Forde, Schurz High School.

My deepest condolences  & prayers to the family. Mr. Wegren was my orchestra teacher. Great man & pretty funny. 

OBITUARY

Richard Stanley Wegren

February 13, 1942 – March 15, 2023

Montclair-Lucania Funeral Home

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