Richard C. Dolnics, 91, 55-year resident of Westchester, born June 29, 1932 in Gary, Indiana to Charles & Clementine (Konopacki) Dolnics. At rest July 9, 2023.

Beloved husband of Charlene (Popple) Dolnics for nearly 60 years. Cherished and involved father of Karen and David (Lisa) Dolnics. Fond brother of the late Geri (late Harold) Wargin and late Dorothy Dolnics. Caring nephew, cousin, uncle, son-in-law, brother-in-law, and friend to many.

He was a graduate of East Chicago Washington High School (Indiana) class of 1950 where he played clarinet in the band, ran track was on the wrestling team.

Before college and during breaks he worked at Inland Steel to earn money for college expenses. He received a bachelor's degree in marketing from Indiana University in 1955 and was a member of the ROTC and commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the US Army, serving in Korea from 1955-57.

Richard moved to the Chicago area and worked as a field engineer for a steel strapping company, traveling to many parts of the US, for sometimes months at a time surviving motel living. Wanting to settle down in one place, he accepted a position as an industrial engineer at E.J. Brach & Sons, Chicago candy makers, then transferring to the package engineering department. Striving for professionalism and perfection in all he did, he became manager of the department, retiring after 34-year career.

Richard and Charlene met by chance in 1962 at the Delta Players community theater group. He was chosen for a role in their summer production which Charlene was directing. The two started dating, by March they were engaged and married October 12, 1963.

After two children and two apartments in Forest Park, the family moved to Westchester in 1968. They joined Westchester Community Church the following year, became active members and enjoyed many friendships over the years.

Some of Richard's favorite leisure activities included sharing holiday celebrations, traversing the US by car, traveling in Europe, breakfast and lunch at a favorite restaurant, community theater productions, golf, bowling, neighborhood walks, and bike rides, swimming, being a Cubs fan and Bears fan, watching college wrestling, track and field and Olympic sports.

Celebration of Life service on Saturday October 14, 2023, at 11:00 am at Westchester Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd., Westchester IL 60154, preceded by visitation at 10:00 am.

Memorial donations appreciated to the church, or the Village Theatre Guild, PO Box 184, Glen Ellyn IL 60138, or west Suburban Humane Society, 1901 W. Ogden Ave. Downers Grove IL 60515