Richard B. Barajaz, age 75, of La Grange Park, crossed over on January 2, 2023 to what William Shakespeare so eloquently described as “the undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns.” Beloved husband of Lorelei Barajaz, nee Renn, for more than 53 years. Loving father of Rick (Dina) Barajaz and Andrea (Brian) Gorski; grandfather of John, Brian, Zoe, and Alexandra. Son of Gabino and the late Theresa Barajaz; Brother of Theresa, Ingrid, Karl, Wally, Larry, Tina, and Caroline; brother-in-law of Mike and Bob, and uncle of many nieces and nephews.
Richard was born in Landshut, Germany and emigrated to Texas at age 6, before moving to Illinois. He joined the Army in 1966, and after a long and distinguished career of more than 25 years active and reserve duty he retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Those who knew him were well-acquainted with his strong will, infectious laugh, and boundless love for his family, his friends, his three dogs, talking about cars, the military, hunting, and watching sports — especially watching his grandson play ice hockey.
Services are Private.
Arrangements entrusted to Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services 9445 W. 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513.
Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood
Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com
For those of you that would like to express your condolences to the family, please click on the link below and you can leave the family a message. If you wish to send a sympathy card to the family, please feel free to send it to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 West 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513, c/o Richard Barajaz Family. We will gladly forward it on to the family.
Print Obituary & Condolences
Barajaz family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Rick was an amazing person and was a huge support to my husband Dan when they were in the 416th together and during the Gulf War. Dan passed in 2014 and Rick would still email me on holidays and throughout the year just to check in. He was such a stand up guy and I will miss getting his email check-ins.
My heart goes out to all of you,
Jean Hoth Slegers
Barajaz Family,
We are so devastated to hear of Mr. Barajaz passing. We always loved talking with him and meeting his pups when we were out walking out boys Hank & Harry. He was so funny and so encouraging. You always felt uplifted after talking with him. If there is anything we can do to help Mrs. Barajaz or the pups, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
With Our Deepest Sympathy,
Anne, John, Hank & Harry
We are just heartbroken hearing of Rick’s passing. Both my husband John and I would love chatting with him when we would meet up while walking the dogs. He was a good, kind man. He will be missed in the neighborhood. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know. We are at 1514 Cleveland. Our hearts go out to all of you. Our deepest sympathy-
Kathy and John
Barajaz family,
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Rich was always fun to talk too. We had many conversation with him when he walked the dogs. Our hearts go out to you at this difficult time.
With deepest sympathy,
The Biedron family.
Dear Barajaz Family,
We were so saddened by the news of Rich’s passing. He was such an integral part of the neighborhood. He was quick to offer assistance and always inquired about how we, and our families were doing. When he spoke of his family, you could hear in his voice and see on his face, the pride and love he had for all of you. May you find comfort in your faith, and in one another as you reminisce and share cherished memories. Know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this sad time of loss.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Laurie O’Connell and Bill Kanz
Mein herzliches Beileid an meine Familie Barajaz besonders an Seine Frau Loreley und die geschschwister Rick und Andrea
Ich bin in Gedanken bei Euch
Theresa und meine Familie