Richard "Rick" Edward Straube

Richard Edward “Rick” Straube, age 78 of Aurora, IL passed away unexpectedly on January 30, 2026 at Endeavor Health Edward Hospital in Naperville, IL. He was born the son of William Straube and Margaret Straube (née Kilzer) in Chicago, IL on November 8, 1947.

Rick was raised in Elmhurst, IL and graduated from York High School as a member of the Class of 1966. He was then drafted by the Unites States Army and served out his enlistment in Germany during the Vietnam War. After returning from overseas, Rick was eager to start his adult life. He bounced around some of the different suburbs of Chicago and eventually met and fell in love with Deborah. The two were married in 1977 and later welcomed their son into the world. Rick was a self-starting, hard worker who was motivated to succeed and provide the best possible life for his loved ones. He owned and operated a Pepperidge Farm Distributor Company in the Chicagoland area, providing good paying jobs for not only fellow members of his community, but also members of his extended family. Taking care of family was always a driving force in Rick’s life. He may have been known as a bit of a “grumpy old man” (think Walter Matthau’s role in the popular film), but he was always supportive to his loved ones and an excellent listener. He was quick and sharp-witted and provided wise advice. Not only will he be dearly missed by his family, but also his remaining group of friends from a shared childhood who he always maintained relationships with, and his fellow Army buddies whom he regularly stayed in contact with as well.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Margaret; his brother William Straube; his nephew William Straube; and his brother-in-law David Eugene Baker.

Rick is survived by his devoted wife Deborah Straube (née Baker); his son Richard E. (Jodi) Straube; his grandchildren Hailey Marie and Alex Jacob Straube; his sister-in-law Andrea Baker with her children Becca (Jared) and Dylan; his niece Ronda Straube (née Furey); his nephew Michael (Brenda) Straube with their children Tyler and Zac. Numerous extended family members, friends, and other loved ones also survive.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that any memorials made in Rick’s honor be directed to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give or (800) 242-8721.

In line with Rick’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and his mortal remains will reside in the protective custody of his loving family until inurnment at Assumption Cemetery in Winfield, IL takes place at a later date, to be determined by the family.