Riccardo J. Iussig

****UPDATED SERVICE INFORMATION**** Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Riccardo J. Iussig Obituary On Wednesday, April 19, 2023, Riccardo (Rick) J. Iussig, of Springfield, Virginia, passed away at the age of 87 following a brief illness. Rick was born April 3, 1936 in Gary, Indiana to Marco and Velia (Raccaro) Iussig. Rick graduated from Lew Wallace High School in 1954, where he was recognized as an outstanding student in drafting, mechanical drawing, and general metals work. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from the Ball State Teachers College in 1961, and was a member of the Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity. Highly recommended by the faculty of Ball State, he was fondly thought of as “an enthusiastic young man who loved to teach and loved children”. He accepted a position at Tolleston High School where he taught as the Industrial Arts Teacher, until he reported to active duty in 1963. He graduated from the College of Armed Forces in 1969, and faithfully served until his retirement in 1986. Rick made life-long friends while serving in the U.S. Air Force, and spoke of them often. He served in various parts of the world including California, Illinois, Hawaii, Nebraska, Korea, and finally the Pentagon in Washington D.C. His many accomplishments in the Air Force included; - The Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster) - Joint Service Commendation Medal - Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters - Air Force Achievement Medal - National Defense Service Medal - Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters - Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon A consummate story teller, Rick enjoyed robust conversations and lengthy phone calls. He delved into genealogy and when posed with a question, would go to great lengths to research and find answers. But above all, he loved to boast of how proud he was of “his one and only” son, Mark, and his grandchildren; Graham, Abby, and Jack. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, and his son, Mark Iussig. Rick is survived by his dear sister, Savina Iussig Kralis, his daughter-in-law, Cara McCarthy, three grand-children, Graham, Abby, and Jack, as well as many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, Indiana. Burial will take place immediately after the visitation at Calumet Park Cemetery, 2305 W. 73rd Avenue, Merrillville, Indiana, with military honors. www. burnsfuneral.com

Riccardo J. Iussig

April 3, 1936 - April 19, 2023