Richard L. Vail, 80, died peacefully July 12, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Nov. 20, 1934, in Janesville, to the late Sadie (Boland) and Frank Vail. He graduated from Janesville High School.
He married the love of his life, Barbara Taylor, on May 18, 1957. He worked faithfully for the Janesville Gazette as a printer for 15 years and the Racine Journal for four. Blessed with a knack for business, he became a manager and partner of Total Furniture in Sturtevant and served in that role for 17 years. He was in the National Guard, a Boy Scout leader and active in St. Louis Church in Caledonia for many years before moving to Tichigan Lake in Waterford. He and Barb participated in Meals on Wheels for many years. Dick is remembered for his admirable generosity, his willingness to lend a hand, his humble spirit and his deep love for his wife and family. He enjoyed joking, watching the sunset over the lake and dessert with every meal. He was quick with a smile and never knew a stranger. He spent hours rocking in his favorite chair, holding first the children, then grandchildren and then great-grandchildren. He traveled, played games and tinkered with things until he had the biggest and best on the block. He spent winters in Florida with Barb and welcomed guest after guest into his home. Those who knew him are better people because of him.
Survivors include his devoted wife of 58 years; children, Tim (Cindy Panke) Vail, Bob (Wendy) Vail, Larry (Angie) Vail, Jeff Vail, Dan (Michelle) Vail; grandchildren, Chris (Stefani) Vail, Katie (Kevin) Wyskochil, Ashley (Grant) Buenger, Adam (Callie) Vail, Austen Vail, Andrew Vail, Aidan Vail; great-grandchildren, Blake, Leila and one on the way; his sister, Sue Bratsven, California; brother-in-law, John Taylor of Texas; nieces and nephews and many dear friends.
He was further preceded in death by six siblings.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, July 18, at 11 a.m., in St. Joseph Catholic Church, S89 W22650 Milwaukee Ave., Big Bend. The Rev. Charlie Zabler will officiate. Private interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Janesville. The family will receive guests on Friday from 5-7 p.m., in Strouf Funeral Home, 1001 High St. Racine, and on Saturday in church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Milwaukee Rescue Mission or the Racine Food Bank with the appreciation of the family.
Well-wishers can visit www.strouf.com.
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