Richard J. Vail Sr.

Richard John Vail Sr., 79, of Aroma Park, passed away Friday, July 8, 2022. He was born May 8, 1943 in Chicago Heights, the son of John Henry and Lorraine (Bain) Vail. He was a small engineer repairman and a welder. He loved to collect and find antiques, as well as attending auctions. He also enjoyed watching westerns and was a member of the Aroma Park American Legion. Most of all he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Richard is survived by his three children, Richard John Jr. and Angel Vail of West Frankfort, Jeff R. Vail of Bradley, Toni and Pat Vail-Graf of Aroma Park; 7 grandchildren, Ashley Clerk, Ryan (Karissa) Vail, Damian “Shae” Vail, Jackalynn (Alex Moreles) Coffman, Mandalin Vail, Mallory Larson, and Jake Vail; 12 great grandchildren, Joshua, Lillian, Abagail, Wyatt, Tristin, Levi, Ember, Anakin, Gracyn, Alayna, Lorraina, and Michael; a brother, Alan Vail; his great buddy, Norman Phillips; the mother of his children, Claire Harrawood; and his good neighbor, Terry Swisher. He is preceded in death by his special friend of 30 years, Nancie Wade; his parents; and 3 brothers. Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 13, 2022 from 4pm until 8pm at Brown-Jensen Funeral Home, Manteno. The funeral service will be held Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 10am at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow at Aroma Park Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will follow at The Office Bar & Grill, Kankakee on Thursday, July 14, 2022. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family.