09/04/2025
Richard “Rick” Incrocci of Carol Stream, age 79, passed away on September 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 20, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, Rick lived a life defined by courage, creativity, and deep devotion to his family.
Rick grew up in Chicago’s Belmont and Central neighborhood, where he shared a one-bedroom apartment with his mother Celia and brother Joe after the early loss of his father, Camillo. Despite the challenges of his youth, Rick was surrounded by a close-knit extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who helped shape his resilient spirit. He graduated from Lane Technical High School in Chicago in 1964 and worked as a teenager at the Cumberland Stables.
On January 3, 1966, Rick enlisted in the United States Army. He was assigned to the 1st Infantry Division and deployed to Vietnam, where he served with distinction. Initially a machine gunner in combat zones, Rick later transferred to aviation within the same division. As a helicopter door gunner, he flew with commanding officers, participated in rescue missions, and saw extensive combat. His bravery and skill earned him numerous commendations including the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal with nine Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for valor, and many others. He rose to the rank of Sergeant E5 before completing his service at Fort Benning in Georgia. My dad created a web site documenting her service in the Army. Please visit, www.longhorn77.net
After returning home from military service, Rick took on various jobs before finding his calling as a commercial artist with SVE in Chicago. In 1979, he launched his own business and continued to evolve as an artist throughout his life. Around 1990, he expanded into wedding videography and photography—fields that allowed him to combine his technical skills with his creative eye. Rick embraced new technologies as they emerged: from pencil sketches to computer graphics, website design to artificial intelligence—he remained at the forefront of visual media throughout his career.
A devoted Trekkie with a special fondness for the original Star Trek series, he found joy in visiting the Adler Planetarium and stargazing from his backyard through his telescope. These interests reflected both his imaginative mind and his appreciation for exploration and discovery. His lighter side also enjoyed old black and white TV shows, as well as the silliness of shows like the Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men.
Above all else, Rick was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife Jerry; his brother Joe; sons Vince, Tony, and Camillo; daughters-in-law Mary, Stephanie, and Michele; grandchildren Tiffany, Danielle, Sammy, Aidan, Ezri (his goddaughter), Piper, and Ellee; and great-grandchildren Justin, Jayden, Jason, Kieran, Tristan, Nevaeh, Davia, Davina, and Atticus.
Rick was known for his fierce patriotism and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. Though he carried himself with the toughness of a combat veteran—and, when younger, had a famously short fuse when provoked—he was also remembered as a big-hearted softy who would do anything for his family. His sense of humor brightened many lives; his willingness to help others left lasting impressions; and his devotion never wavered.
He was preceded in death by his parents Camillo and Celia Incrocci.
Rick’s life was one of transformation—from humble beginnings to decorated soldier; from commercial artist to entrepreneur; from tough-as-nails veteran to loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy lives on through the generations of family who carry forward his strength and spirit.
May Richard “Rick” Incrocci be remembered always for the love he gave so freely and the life he lived so fully.
In lieu of flowers please make donations in Richards name to the ASPCA: Secure.aspca.org
A Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bucaro Funeral Home & Cremation Center located at, 485 W. Army Trail Road in Bloomingdale. There will be a visitation from 3PM to 7PM, during which there will be food and an open bar. There will be a religious service and military ceremony from approximately 7PM to 8PM.
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