Richard Lester Retrum, 85, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Oak Crest Area Retirement Center. 

He was born August 15, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Lester and Myrtle (Piper) Retrum. 

Richard was a member of First Lutheran Church in DeKalb and a graduate of DeKalb High School, Class of 1957. Richard enjoyed woodworking, spending time in nature and spending time with his grandson. He also enjoyed spending time with friends from his golf leagues, bowling leagues, and his friends from his time at Contel/Verizon.

He is survived by his wife Sharon; his children Diane (Rob) Hart and Michael (Judy) Retrum; his grandson Andrew Hart; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Myrtle, and his sister Linda (Retrum) Strand. 

The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, at First Lutheran Church, 324 N 3rd Street,  DeKalb, Illinois, with Rev. Megan Vaughan officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Park Cemetery in DeKalb. 

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m. at the church. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Kidney Cancer Association, in memory of Richard Retrum, at P.O. Box 676226, Dallas, TX 75267-6226 or by visiting www.kidneycancer.org.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.