Richard A. Haase

Rich was born to Arthur L. Haase and Katherine (Farrell) Haase on April 19, 1943. Rich’s father was one of the first casualties on Iwo Jima, during WWII.

During Rich’s childhood, he traveled with his mother and step-father, brothers and sister to many US Air Force bases in the US, until the family settled in Villa Park, IL. It is there that Rich formed many life-long friendships. Rich is most grateful to his mother for her determination and sacrifice in sending him to the newly formed St. Francis Catholic High School in Wheaton. He benefited greatly by the education of the Christian Brothers at St. Francis and as an adult tried to give back to the school, by being on various scholarship boards. 

Rich was a true child of the 1950s. He lived many adventures involving sock hops, the bowling alley gang, and racing cars on Route 64 to and from Skip’s drive-in, which all became a fabric of the man who loved and enjoyed his family, friends, fast cars and life.

Rich is preceded in death by brothers Arthur C. Haase and Ronald Gutchman. Rich is survived by his devoted and loving wife Camille, daughters Julie Witte (Paul), Casandra Deniston, step-children Laura (Bill) Stites, Dan Harris and Drew (Rhonda) Harris, his sister Judy Gutchman and brother John Gutchman. Rich was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren. He is also fondly remembered by his nephews Arthur C. Haase Jr. and Joel (Debbie) Haase.

Rich passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Mass will take place on Monday January 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St Rita Catholic Church, Rockford. Visitation will take place at the church from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. 

The family request the omission of flowers. However, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The St. Francis High School Alumni Scholarship Association in honor of Richard A. Haase, Class of ‘61.