Richard A. Foltynewicz

Richard A. Foltynewicz, age 83, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, April 10, 2009 at Ottawa Regional Hospital and Healthcare Center Funeral services honoring his life will be held 10 AM Wednesday at St. Columba Church with Rev. Fr. Ronald Dodd officiating. Interment will follow in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Joliet with full military honors. Visitation will be from 3 to 8 PM Tuesday at Gladfelter Funeral Home with Prayer Service at 7:30 PM. Richard was born September 25, 1925 at Marseilles, Illinois, a son of Anton and Gertrude (Petzel) Foltynewicz. He married Patricia E. McGinnis January 9, 1946 at St. Joseph's Church in Marseilles. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; his children, Richard Allen (Carol) Foltynewicz of Las Vegas, Nevada, Barbara Ann (James) Straughan of Portland, Oregon, Daniel P. (Elyse) Foltyniewicz of Ottawa and Gary (Gail) Foltynewicz of Franklin, Tennessee. He also leaves a sister, Catherine Kennell of Lostant; a brother, Ronald (Josephine) Foltynewicz of Marseilles; and a sister-in-law, Betty Foltynewicz of Marseilles; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters, Irene Sharp, Clara and Delores Foltynewicz and brothers, Frank, Eugene and Edward Foltynewicz. Mr. Foltynewicz was the retired owner and operator of Richard's Lawn and Garden Shop in Ottawa. He was also retired from Libbey Owens Ford. Richard was a member of St. Columba Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, AMVETS, the Marine Corps League, Catholic War Vets, Polish War Vets and the Knights of Columbus. He was also a member of various lawn and garden organizations and served for twelve years on the LaSalle County Board. Richard was quite active politically and was a leader in the "Pennies For Pearl" campaign for the recognition of Pearl Harbor Day on the calendar. He was successful in that effort and was present for the signing of the declaration by President Bill Clinton. Memorial contributions are suggested to Illinois Veterans Home at LaSalle, C/O Financial Plus, Attention: Betty Frey, Member Services, 800 Chestnut Street, Ottawa, Illinois 61350.