Richard J. Feld

Richard Feld, 70, of Orland Park, IL, passed away August 23, 2024, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, surrounded by his loving family, after battling lymphoma with all his might.

Rich was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Feld. He is survived by his adoring mother, Sue; beloved sister, April; brother-in-law, Jon; cherished brother, Charlie; sister-in-law, Laura; niece, Julia; and nephews, Jack, Vincent and Anthony; stepson, Michael; and countless dear friends. To quote a friend, “If the love of friends and family could have healed him, cancer would not have won.” Rich was generosity personified, he lived his life serving others, and will be most missed for his kind heart, unwavering positivity (the glass was ALL the way full) and his hilarious sense of humor (oh the pranks he played!)

Loving messages from friends have poured in, with these sentiments oft repeated “heart of gold” “most generous” “best person I knew” “most positive influence in my life” “most treasured friend”.

Rich was born on March 18, 1954, in Chicago, Il, the son of Daniel and Catherine Sue (Christiano) Feld. He graduated from Homewood Flossmoor High School and went on to study film at Columbia College. Rich was a talented assistant director, documentarian, and screenwriter, working on films like, The Untouchables, Risky Business, Poltergeist and the Color of Money. Rich also learned the jewelry business, and attended watchmaking school in Quincy, IL. He (mostly) loved working at his Dad’s store, Regal Jewelers, earning the esteemed title of “Richie Regal” from Dad, Danny. Rich was also a talented musician, singer and songwriter, and one of his proudest accomplishments was the release of his CD in 2016, “Somewhere West of Laramie.”

Rich lived a spiritual life, believing in Native American practices. He was “adopted” by his Hopi Grandpa, who he met on a reservation while filming a movie.  He was honored to be brought into the tribe’s inner circle, learning about and embracing spiritual life, practice and ceremonies. Rich believed that spirituality is not just a theory, but we must live it. He lived his life with a pure, helping heart, with the highest intention, with an amazing spirit of generosity. Rich has helped so many and contributed so much. He will be so greatly missed and having him in our lives was the greatest of gifts. You can rest now Rich. We love you.

Private family services will be held with burial in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, IL. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL.