Richard B. May

Richard (“Rick”) B. May of Western Springs, Illinois passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on July 31, 2026 due to heart complications. Rick’s gratitude was boundless for the friends and family who showed him love and support through his cardiac challenges, and for the compassionate medical professionals who helped care for him.

Rick was born in Chicago and grew up in Park Ridge, Illinois, where he graduated from Maine East High School (class of 1963). His college calling brought him to Denver University (class of 1967). He would reminisce—often with a gleam in his eye—about the fraternity parties he attended there, and he spoke fondly of his time surrounded by nature and the mountains in Colorado. After graduating, he returned home to Chicago, where he built a successful 40-year career as a commercial real estate broker.

One of Rick’s favorite sayings was, “Work hard, play hard,” and he truly embodied these words. He excelled in his education and career, and he also believed in the importance of having fun. As a young man, he loved playing beach volleyball along the lakefront in Chicago. Later, as a father and uncle, he became known for giving memorable “tractor rides” that delighted the kids in the neighborhood. Rick will also be remembered for eagerly bringing his A-game to badminton tournaments at family gatherings, even when his toughest competition was a determined 12-year-old niece or nephew.

Rick’s greatest pride and his highest priority was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 46 years, Anne. He was the biggest champion of his daughter, Emily, whom he referred to as the “apple of his eye.” Although he was not boastful, he generally did not miss an opportunity to brag about her proudly. When Emily married Dan, Rick gained a son-in-law of whom he was equally proud.

Rick’s absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife, Anne, his daughter, Emily, and his son-in-law, Dan. He is also survived by his sister, Kristina, his brothers- and sisters-in-law, many cherished nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, beloved cousins, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his soft-spoken kindness, quirky humor, and enduring loyalty.

In keeping with Rick's wishes, no funeral service will be held. Instead, a commemorative bench will be placed in a favorite local park, where he spent time with his family. It is envisioned that this park bench will serve as a place to supervise children at play and encourage them to “play fair,” as Rick would have done.

Memorial contributions may be made towards the Western Springs commemorative park bench (everloved.com/life-of/rick-may) or to the Chicago Anti-Cruelty Society (anticruelty.org/donate).