Eric "Rick" Michael Appelman

Rick was born in Chicago in 1958 and grew up in Skokie. He was the beloved son of the late Fredric and Marilyn Appelman, and is survived by his loving wife (unofficial), with whom he shared a lifetime of companionship. He was the loving brother of Arlene Appelman Alpert, and Joel (Sherry) Appelman, the very proud uncle of Kenneth (Amy) Alpert, and Doug Appelman, and the dear great-uncle of Evan Alpert and Emma Alpert.

Rick was a strong businessman and owned and/or was a partner in several businesses over the years, including Rick’s AA Towing, A and A Mobil Mart, Rick’s Mobil, and after these, for the majority of his life, he was the proud owner of Rick’s Tire and Auto Service. Rick made many, many, amazing long-term and close friendships, along with business relationships, through having these businesses.

He also consistently continued his education in automotive repair, taking ongoing classes, and received many completion certificates over the years, always learning, keeping up-to-date, bettering himself and becoming more knowledgeable.

We will always remember Rick for his great wit as he had a great sense of humor and could banter back and forth with the best of them, and had a personality that would light up a room. We will always remember the many family events where we all laughed so hard and really enjoyed the moments together.

Rick's major love was riding on his motorcycle, taking long weekend rides with good friends, and he felt his most free at that time - at total “peace” with the loud pipes of his motorcycle, music blasting, and an endless open road to explore.

Rick will be terribly missed, and will be forever loved by his family, all of his dear friends, and his precious cats, as well.

May Rick rest in the “peace” that he loves, as he now explores the endless open roads in heaven.

Private graveside services have previously been held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Skokie, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either of the following two organizations:

American Kidney Foundation (www.kidneyfund.org)

Orphans of the Storm (www.orphansofthestorm.org/donate/)