After
graduation from Taft, Richard earned his engineering degree from Purdue Univ.
and then served during the Korean War.
In the family's manufacturing company, Food Warming Equipment Co., Inc., he
holds five U.S. patents and advanced to become president and chairman of the
board.
In McHenry County, an interest in politics led him to elected positions in Nunda
Township, the District 46 Board of Education (president) and chairing the county
board.
Beginning in 1980, he has served with distinction in the Illinois General
Assembly representing District 32 as state representative and state senator,
from which he announced his retirement.
In 2003, Richard was presented with the Centegra Health System “Community Leader
Award,” given to individuals who have demonstrated service on a broad scale
resulting in improvements and contributions in community service and overall
community health