Richard (Dick) F. Shouer

The family of Richard F. Shouer (Dick) is saddened to announce his passing on September 15, 2025 in Freeport, Illinois.

Richard was born in Freeport on March 23, 1932. He was a proud 1950 graduate of Freeport High School, often sharing stories of the state championship basketball team and winning first place for his one-act play. He enrolled at the University of Dubuque where he met his future wife, Beverly Small. After graduating, they married on August 6, 1955, and shared more than 70 beautiful years together.

Richard served two years in the U. S. Army, later beginning his career in technical writing at Micro Switch/Honeywell.

Richard was a member of Bethany UCC and valued the fellowship there. He was a supporter of the arts in his community, often attending musical events at Freeport High School, band concerts at Krape Park, or attending the Willow Folk Festival. Richard was involved in the Freeport Area Church Cooperative and the early days of the King Center. He was a passionate Chicago Cubs fan and proudly cheered for his Freeport Pretzels. Richard was an example of kindness to those around him, never ceasing to bring laughter and joy through his songs and stories.

Richard and Beverly were ubiquitous in Freeport, attending summer concerts at Krape Park, Debate Square and were devotees of the big band Moonlight Serenade dance at the Masonic Temple, to name a few events. Furthermore, they were strong supporters and attendees of the Freeport Pretzels sports and fan club, as well as attending countless performances at the Jeannette Lloyd Theatre.

He is survived by his wife Beverly, daughters Sally Wonder (James) and Julie Shouer, granddaughter Emily Wonder, sister-in-law Darlene Shouer, and nephew Dean Shouer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Gladys Shouer, his brother, Thomas Shouer, and his nephew, Curtis Shouer.

Our family would like to express appreciation for the kindness and care that Richard received from the staff at Freeport Memorial Hospital and FHN Hospice.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Bethany United Church of Christ, 2341 W Stephenson St, Freeport, IL. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorials may be given to Freeport Area Church Cooperative.