Richard ‘Dick’ Feldt, 86

Richard “Dick” Feldt, 86, of Woodstock, passed away at home peacefully on Aug. 11, 2021. 

Dick was born on Oct. 15, 1934, to Ralph and Rose (Berna) Feldt in Woodstock and was proud to say that he lived his entire life in McHenry County.

Dick was a graduate of the Hebron class of 1952, and when asked if he played on the infamous basketball team, Dick replied that he was busy milking cows on O’Brien Road. 

Dick started out washing cars at Reichert Chevrolet and retired as their parts and service director after 40 years. He loved cars and helping his customers out with theirs, especially all the young guys looking for those hard-to-find parts as they were rebuilding their engines.

Dick was a true renaissance man. He was an avid hunter in his earlier years, a fisherman his entire life, he loved photography, and won recognition with a photo taken on the Woodstock Square. He enjoyed woodworking, and his family members have many pieces that he made over the years. He loved his furry friends and the wildlife in the yard, he enjoyed cooking and gardening, he was a voracious reader, and he loved cars. He co-owned a stock car that they raced in Lake Geneva back in the late ’60s early ’70s, and then in the ’80’s and ’90s he was involved with SCCA Racing (Sports Car Club of America), working on the crew for a friend. He had great stories and memories of those days, but one memory that comes to mind is when he shared a shade tree with Paul Newman at one of the tracks.

Dick was fearless, never shied away from hard work, could fix anything, and always kept bond money in his safe for anyone who might need it. He was always there to lend a hand, always ready to come to someone’s rescue, never judging or lecturing, and always ready to hear a good joke or make you laugh. Dick lived a full and happy life and was often heard saying he was happier than he had a right to be. Dick will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dick is survived by his three children, whom he loved dearly, Craig (Peg) Feldt of Marengo, Cindie (Paul) Birdwell of Woodstock, and Cheryl (Pete) Michling of Woodstock; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great great-granddaugher. He is also survived by his siblings, Roger (Char) Feldt of Wisconsin, Ray (Julie) Feldt of Missouri, and Roseanne (Ray) Knudsen of Florida, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Per Dick’s wishes, he was cremated, and there will be no memorial service. 

The family would like to thank JourneyCare and Homewatch Care Givers for their kindness and support.

The family has selected JourneyCare and Helping Paws (or any animal rescue/shelter of your choosing) for any memorials you wish to make in Dick’s memory.