Richard John Schmotzer

Princeton - Richard J. "Rick" Schmotzer, 73, of Princeton, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, October 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Rick was born on November 30, 1951, in Aurora, Illinois, to the late Michael and Cornelia (Arendt) Schmotzer. He was a proud graduate of Yorkville High School, Class of 1970. He moved to Princeton in the late 1990, where they purchased a farm and started collecting animals. Rick loved all creatures big and small. On September 12, 1970, at Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, Rick married the love of his life, Kathy Ritchie. They raised their family together a son Troy and daughter Tracy. This year, they celebrated 55 wonderful years of marriage, a testament to their unwavering love and dedication to one another. Rick spent over 30 years as a devoted driver with ABF Trucking before retiring. Known for his strong work ethic and gentle spirit, he was a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was an avid football fan who cheered faithfully for the Chicago Bears and a lifelong supporter of his beloved Chicago Cubs. Rick had a knack for discovering treasures, one of his favorite pastimes was going antiquing as well as thrifting. He had a large collection of Native American memorable that he was very proud of. He loved a good joke or prank and had the ability to tell a great story. A huge fan of Austin Powers and American Pickers. He cherished time spent on his farm caring for his animals and took pride in the peaceful life he and Kathy built together. He loved spending time with the grandchildren on the farm riding 4-wheelers, mowing the grass, a hobbie he loved and didn't share. He and Kathy loved traveling to Vegas and Arizona where some of his happiest moments were made, he enjoyed the warm weather, beautiful scenery, and family time that meant so much to him. Above all else, Rick was a family man who deeply loved those around him. His laughter, kindness, and steady presence will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Surviving his wife of 55 years, Kathy Schmotzer of Princeton; two children, Troy (Roxanne) Schmotzer of Kingman, AZ and daughter Tracy (Dale) Basile of Princeton, IL; six grandchildren Robert Rainford, Heather (Ryan) Segler, Joseph "Joey" Rainford, Tyler Schmotzer, Angelina Basile and Jaxon "Jax" Basile; three great grandchildren Tyler and Luke Rainford and Adleigh Segler. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Preceded in death by his parents Michael and Cornelia Schmotzer, sister in law Beverly Schmotzer. Per Ricks request, there will be no services, his wishes were to keep things simple for his love Kathy. Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com Memorials may be directed to the family. Arrangements entrusted to Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Richard John Schmotzer

November 30, 1951 - October 16, 2025