He was born on July 13, 1947 in Poland. Richard was preceded in death by his son, Thomas R. Rajchel (1984-2011), father Henryk and mother Teofila (nee Zaleska) Rajchel. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 45 years Grace (nee Oliwa) Rajchel, brother Bogdan Rajchel and sister Irena Kus plus many nieces and nephews.
Richard was born and raised in Poland where he worked for the government-run bus company. He moved to the United States and lived with his aunt in Chicago becoming a proud U.S. citizen. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to founding R.R. Roofing and Construction Co. in the late 1970’s. His company excelled on repair and replacement of roofs of commercial buildings, schools and churches.
Richard enjoyed traveling, hunting, fishing, skiing, boating and other outdoor activities. He frequently traveled to Poland to visit his family, and to countries in Europe, Africa, Israel and North America to learn about different cultures and for recreation. He was well-read especially interested in history and biographies. Through his wide areas of interests, he developed friendships in groups from hunting and fishing, car shows, beekeeping, grief sharing and St. Paul the Apostle Church.
Visitation for Richard will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at Marsh Funeral Home at 305 North Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL.
Visitation prior to Funeral Mass on Thursday, September 24, 2026 from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul the Apostle Church at 6401 Gages Lake Road, Gurnee IL Burial will occur after the mass at Ascension Cemetery 1920 Buckley Road, Libertyville, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association at American Stroke Association to PO Box 840692,
Dallas, TX 75284-0692.
