On Thursday, May 16, 2024, at the age of 96, Richard (Dick) Walter Mlodock was called to be with the Lord. Dick was born an only child in Chicago, IL on December 5, 1927 to the union of the late Adolph and Alma (Jahnke) Mlodock. He graduated from Carl Schurz High School and after military service, he attended both the Art Institute of Chicago and the American Academy of Art. Following in his father’s artistic footsteps, Dick went on to develop a successful career as a commercial artist, partnering in multiple businesses including United Artists Studios, Vanides-Mlodock and Mlodock & Hansen.

On April 3, 1956, he married Cornelia Salm. They purchased their first house together in Hillside, IL before settling in Deerfield, IL in a home that he designed. Deerfield is where they raised their family of four children, were quite active in their church, and developed close friendships in a bowling group with others of faith. Upon Dick’s retirement in 1999, they permanently moved to their summer home on Okauchee Lake in Oconomowoc, WI where he avidly fished, golfed, enjoyed nature and life on the water, and continued exploring art.

Dick was a witty and fun-loving guy who provided much amusement for his family. He lived the mantra ‘seize the day,’ keeping active and wanting everyone to do the same. When he wasn’t entertaining those around him, he was delving headfirst into one of his myriad of interests. His imagination, ideas, curiosity, and creativity had great impact on everyone around him.

He is survived by his daughters Jean (the late John) Baker of Lake Bluff, IL and Sally (Sean) Nabors of Naperville, IL; his grandchildren John Baker, Jr, 29, Ashley (Martin) Mlodock, 28, and Jaymes Baker, 26; his son-in-law Gabriel Castillo; and his caretaker Christina Dove and her son Solomon Williams, 7. He is preceded in death by his loving wife Cornelia (née Salm), his daughter Mary Castillo, and his son Robert Mlodock.

A private burial will take place at the Gardens of Stone Bank with full military honors.

Memorial service will be held at 2pm Sunday, June 2 at Christ Church in Lake Forest, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Richard’s name to The Navigators, Colorado Springs, CO. www.navigators.org

Here is a link to a video slideshow of Richard: https://vimeo.com/952045311