Richard "Rick" Sullivan

Richard Sullivan, 75, Beloved Family Man and “The Glove Guy” Richard Sullivan, 75, of Northwest Indiana, passed away surrounded by family and love. Known for his generosity, humor, and zest for life, Richard left an unforgettable mark on all who knew him. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Rick moved to Northwest Indiana at the age of two. He grew up in Calumet City, Illinois, where his childhood revolved around baseball—baseball, baseball, and more baseball. He graduated from T.F. North High School in 1968 and attended Southern Illinois University for one year. A dedicated and versatile professional, Rick worked for many years at LaSalle Steel in various positions before traveling local and cross country as a truck driver. He concluded his career as a labor foreman for Chicago Local 76. Retirement, however, did not slow him down; it simply opened the door to his favorite role—full-time “Papaw Dude,” providing loving care to his grandchildren until they started kindergarten. Rick was a man of many talents and passions. He was a Microsoft-certified computer technician, an avid fisherman, hunter,and golfer, and a handyman who could fix or build just about anything—earning the well-deserved title of his wife’s favorite handyman. Most recently, he was known as “The Glove Guy” for his dedication to repairing and re-lacing softball and baseball gloves. He also devoted time to coaching, helping with women’s basketball at Purdue Calumet University for three years and coaching girls’ travel softball for several seasons. A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan—and proud shareholder—Rick never missed a game. Above all, Rick”Papaw Dude” was a devoted family man. He loved hosting gatherings at “Club Sullivan,” cheering on his grandchildren at sports and school events, and celebrating holidays and birthdays with loved ones. His life was defined by putting others first, a principle he carried to the very end. His lifelong wish to be an organ donor was fulfilled, as he was able to donate tissue and corneas through the Gift of Hope Foundation. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Edward “Durb” Sullivan and Wanda (Watson) Sullivan, and his sister, Donna Sullivan. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Patricia Sullivan nee Kohn; his sister, Gwen (Ray) Herringer; his brother-in-law, William “Bill” (Judy) Kohn; his daughters, Jamie (Jerry) Noel, Jennifer (Joshua) Reno, and Beth (Chris) Provett; and his cherished grandchildren, Allie Snider; Maya, Zachary, and Harper Reno; Brittany, Caleb, and Robert Provett. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and lifelong friends. Though Rick is no longer with us, his love, humor, and generosity will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him. He will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered as a man who lived life fully, loved fiercely, and gave selflessly. He will leave everyone with his favorite quote: “Go Pack Go” until we meet again. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hobart High Girls Softball Booster Club or Hobart Soccer Club. In celebration of Rick’s life and his love of sports, we invite you to wear your favorite team’s apparel. Visitation will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 3 p.m. until the time of the Funeral service at 6 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. www.burnsfuneral.com.

Richard "Rick" Sullivan

April 25, 1950 - December 12, 2025