Richard Allen McTague

Richard Allen McTague

April 6, 1945 – March 10, 2026

Richard Allen McTague, 80, of Houston, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Born in Oak Park, Illinois, and raised in his beloved hometown of Delton, Michigan. Richard lived a life defined by service, grit, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved.

A Legacy of Service

As a proud Vietnam Veteran, Richard served his country in the United States Navy aboard the Mindsweeper USS Adroit. After his time in the Navy, Richard moved to Houston, TX with his first wife, Vivian, where his commitment to public safety and serving his community continued in 1969 when he joined the Houston Fire Department. Over a distinguished 32-year career, he rose to the rank of Captain at Station 37 (C Shift). To Richard, the HFD was more than a career; it was a brotherhood and family that remained central to his life long after his retirement in 2001. Even after retirement, Richard continued to support the HFD and was a dedicated member of the retired firefighter community. Richard’s family and friends remember him as a proud firefighter who dedicated his life to serving the City of Houston, often putting his life on the line for others.

Richard was an avid sports enthusiast of all sports (just ask his wife, Lynda). He could always be found cheering for his teams—most notably his beloved University of Michigan Wolverines (Go Blue), the Houston Astros, Houston Texans, and the Houston Cougars. Whether he was sitting in the stands as a Texans season ticket holder or watching a game from the deck of his bay house (and enjoying the sunset as a bonus), his enthusiasm for his teams was infectious.

Richard’s greatest legacy, however, was his family. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Emma McTague, his first wife and mother of his 2 children, Vivian Cimala McTague; his sister Barbara McTague, his beloved Labrador, Freedom, and many other close family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Lynda McTague, and their six children: Vickie McTague, Rick McTague, Andy Strauss (Renee), Jeff Strauss (Tamara), Peyton Strauss (Julie), and Kristen Strauss Aust (Scott). He is also survived by his sister Nancy McTague Kuhlmann (Ron) and his brother George McTague (Carol).

While he was a hero to the community and the nation, his greatest role was that of “Hero” was most clear when it came to his commitment to and love of his grandchildren: Austin Abbott (Hannah), Jack Abbott, Danielle Strauss (Cameron), Anna Strauss, Kaitlyn Aust, Nicholas Strauss, Sophia Strauss, Brooklyn Aust, Carter Strauss, Olivia Strauss. Richard bragged about and celebrated his grandchildren as often as he could. He was a constant fixture and supporter of his grandchildren, celebrating their every milestone with pride. His family was the priority and focus of his life. He was always there to share wisdom, advice, and guidance.

In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Richard’s legacy is one of love and commitment to his extended family and friends. He is survived by nephews and nieces, including Scott Kuhlmann (Martha), Mark Kuhlmann (Celina), Kim Kuhlmann Reilly (Jeff), Taye Kuhlmann Krusleski (Ronnie), Chip McTague (Kristin), and Billy McTague (Gemma). He is also remembered by many close friends who he called family.

Those who truly knew Richard knew a man who would sacrifice himself for others. He loved deeply and took his commitment of service to heart. Many lives were touched, changed, and saved by this hero.

Services & Memorial:

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Houston Methodist Hospital who went beyond their duties to make Richard feel happy and safe. Many thanks, also, go out to Ronnie Krusleski for connecting the family to the right people and resources to help make Richard’s final wishes come to fruition.

Visitation: Wednesday, March 25, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Funeral Service: Thursday, March 26, 2:00 PM (Visitation at 1:00 PM, Graveside at 3:00 PM)

Location: Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077.

In honor of his service, the Houston Fire Department and the U.S. Navy will perform military and departmental honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s honor to:

· HFD Honor Guard: PO Box 590305, Houston, TX 77259

· HFD Pipes and Drums: PO Box 1404, Bellaire, TX 77402

Go Blue!