Richard L. Mariotto

In Loving Memory of Richard Louis Mariotto

Richard Louis Mariotto, 86, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026. Born on May 25, 1940, Richard lived a life defined by service, dedication, and a deep love for his family, his country, and the many passions that brought him joy.

Richard graduated from St. Pat’s Grade School and Joliet Catholic High School. He proudly served his country as an Army Paratrooper during the Vietnam War. Following his military service and graduation from Lewis College of Science and Technology, he built a distinguished 27-year career with American Airlines as a Technical Crew Chief. Aviation remained one of his greatest passions throughout his life, and he took immense pride in the work he did and the industry he loved.

Richard had a lifelong love of classic cars and racing and was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting. He trained his beloved Springers for many field trial events and later in life grew very fond of his little buddy, Jagger James, Diana’s Cavapoo. He was also an accomplished marksman, remaining remarkably skilled well into his 80s. Another of his greatest passions was amateur ham radio. Operating under the call sign KA9ABC, Richard loved making long-distance contacts around the world and especially enjoyed speaking with people throughout Europe, proudly sharing his Italian heritage. He even traveled abroad to meet many of the friends he made on the airwaves. He earned an Advanced Class amateur radio license and found great enjoyment in both the technical challenge and the lifelong friendships the hobby brought him. Whether talking about airplanes, classic cars, racing, or sharing stories with family and friends, Richard’s quick wit, infectious enthusiasm, and larger-than-life personality made every gathering brighter.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Sandra (Harper) Mariotto; his daughters, Diana Lynne Mariotto Alfaro and her husband, Steven Alfaro, and Lisa Joanne Stoner and her husband, William Stoner. He was a proud grandfather to Grace Stoner and Natalie Stoner. He and Sandra divided their time between Illinois and Maryland. He enjoyed being part of his grandchildren’s lives and took great interest in everything they were involved with. Richard was also a devoted member of St. Ann Catholic Church and Saint Raymond’s Cathedral and belonged to multiple gun clubs across the country, where he formed many lasting friendships.

Richard is also survived by his brother, Dr. Marco Mariotto, and his wife, Dr. Danita Czyzewski; his niece, Ana Sophia Query and her husband, Josh Query; his nephew, Luca Mariotto; his sister-in-law, Evelyn Mariotto; his niece, Ann Mariotto Kinsch and her husband, John Kinsch; and his niece, Jennifer Mariotto.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sally Mariotto Hughes and Marco Mariotto; his sister, Margaret Mariotto; his brother, Joseph Mariotto; and his nephew, Joseph Mariotto Jr.

Though he is no longer with us, Richard’s spirit will forever soar as high as the airplanes he admired and remain as timeless as the classic cars he loved. And, like the radio waves he so enjoyed riding across the world, his love, wisdom, and memory will continue to reach all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral from the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home, Tuesday July 28, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. to the Cathedral of St Raymond Nonnatus for a Mass of Chrisitan Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville. Visitation Monday 4-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials to Cantigny Post #367 VFW would be appreciated.