Richard Stiffler, father of eight, was loved by all who knew him

Richard (Dick) Stiffler was a man from ‘the greatest generation’, an entrepreneur that took chances, made his own luck and quietly fed, clothed, and sheltered his wife and eight children.

As a ‘behind the scenes’ husband and father, he was always there.

Richard was a devoted and dependable husband, father and grandfather. He instilled a strong sense of values and work ethic in his family.

Richard started his working career at Smith Oil Corporation in Rockford and later became the owner of both Central and Auburn Gulf, and Sinnissippi Sunoco, respectively. He later managed the Beloit Wisconsin plant for Muller-Pinehurst Dairy.

He jumped back into entrepreneurship when he purchased a local Maid-Rite restaurant in Loves Park. He concluded his work life at Hononegah High School in Rockton, before enjoying many years of retirement beginning in 1994.

He and his wife Rita were parishioners as well as instrumental in the formation of Church of the Holy Spirit in Roscoe. Richard spent his retirement years enjoying backyard nature, traveling, family history, and caring for his homestead property.

Richard passed away at the age of 94, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, in the presence of his family.

Richard was born October 20, 1928, in Rockford, IL., the son of George and Doris (Bookman) Stiffler. He graduated from East High School in Rockford. He married Rita Wickson on April 3, 1948, in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Rockford, IL.

Richard is survived by his children: Steve Stiffler, Cynthia (Carl) Orlando, Bill Stiffler, Howard Stiffler, (special friend Deanna Phillips), Ann (Jesse) Campos, Patty (Dean) Schermerhorn, and Ellen (Matt) Harp.

Grandchildren: Shannon (Brad) Chambers, Michael (Elizabeth) Stiffler, Justin (Danielle) Zwiger, Andre (Deyanira) LuQue, Damien (Pam) Stiffler, Clinton Stiffler, Jonathan (Mallory) Stiffler, Molly (Bobby) Syal, Owen (Brittany) Stiffler, Ruben Campos, Preston (Annie) McDonald, Alex (fiancé, Anna Nantais) Harp, Annabelle Harp, Margaret (fiancé Sean Kuske) Harp., precious step and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He is preceded in death by his wife Rita, son Gene Stiffler, parents, George and Doris, and siblings Dale Bookman, Audrey Cunningham and Ronald Stiffler.

A private family celebration and mass will be held. Richard’s children would like to especially thank the incredible staff of OSF Healthcare/Hospice. Memorials can be made to OSF Healthcare/Hospice.

His family prays, "Heavenly father, we ask for your mercy and grace for Richard’s soul as he begins his journey into eternity. Please bring him into your loving arms, and grant him peace and rest."

More News from Roscoe

• Death notices for the Stateline: 4/29/2024 We remember those who are no longer with us in Roscoe, Rockton, and South Beloit.
• Strong spirits: life After the sleep of winter, life jumps out at us everywhere.