Richard H. Holman

Richard H. Holman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and retired Chicago Police Officer, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 88 years old.

Born on November 14, 1936, to Alfred and Hildur Holman, Richard grew up with his brothers, David and William, all of whom have preceded him in death. Richard proudly served the City of Chicago for 31 years as a police officer. During his distinguished career, he worked in Traffic Area 5 and the 14th District–Shakespeare before retiring from the Chicago Police Department Training Academy, where he took great pride in mentoring new recruits and passing on his knowledge and experience.

Richard was a man of many talents and tireless work ethic. In addition to his police service, he enjoyed taking photographs as a freelance photographer. His photos of major current events were often published in national and local newspapers. His creative eye and passion for capturing life’s moments brought him great pride.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 56 wonderful years, Catherine (CPD), who was the love of his life. He made sure to remind her everyday how much he loved her. Together they created a family of three children. He was a close and dedicated father to Christopher (Renee) Holman, Jennifer Conway (CPD), and Kimberly (John) Skorupa. He will fondly be remembered as “One Helluva Dad”.

Known affectionately as “Papa,” Richard adored his grandchildren: Makenzie (Anton), Joshua, CJ, Joanna, Stephanie, Easton, Blake, Marina, and Riley. Also special in his life were Anthony, Natalia, and Bianca. He found great joy in being a part of all their lives and treasured every moment spent with them.

From a previous marriage, Richard was also the father of April Melodee (Doug) Rahn, Darryl Holman, and Lauralynn Holman and grandfather to Elena and Joulian Gomez.

He was a loving brother-in-law to Anthony (Racile) LaBonte, Laura (Jerry) Hrabe, Patricia Holman and the late Jay Holman. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, who will remember his warmhearted kindness.

Richard’s love extended to his four-legged companions as well. He shared many happy years with his dogs Avalon and Millie. He enjoyed spoiling his granddog, Misha, affectionately giving her “peabrain scratches” and far too many treats.

Over the years, Richard enjoyed several hobbies including fishing with family or friends in Galena, Huntley, and other favorite spots. Many of his summers were focused on making his lawn and flowers pristine and beautiful for all to enjoy. He could be found relaxing with his favorite drink, a VO and Pepsi, and sharing stories or laughter with those around him. For fun, you might spot him trying his luck at the slots at the casino, where he was always sure that this spin was going to be the big one. His most favorite time of year was Christmas, which he celebrated with childlike joy. He counted down the days, made sure to remind everyone how many months until Christmas, and felt that there could never be enough gifts under the tree. He was a “Master Gift Wrapper,” unmatched to even Santa’s best elf.

He was a homebody at heart, happiest when surrounded by his family, who were the center of his world. His presence enriched the lives of those who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of calling him a friend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made either to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation’s “Get Behind the Vest” program, causes that were close to Richard’s heart.

Ever the practical man, Richard’s signature question before any event was, “Are jeans okay?” We welcome you to take his advice to heart…wear your favorite pair of jeans; he would have insisted!

Visitation Sunday, November 9th from 10:00 A.M. till time of Funeral Service 1:00 P.M. at Cumberland Chapels (FRIEL FUNERAL DIRECTORS) 8300 W. Lawrence Ave., Norridge. Inurnment All Saints Cemetery.