Richard’s Story
To know Richard Craven was to know compassion, integrity, and grit. He faced life’s challenges with strength and a smile, always choosing to help others before himself. Today, his legacy lives on through The Richard Craven Foundation — carrying forward his belief that one act of kindness can change everything.
Early Life
Richard Edmond Craven was born on September 8, 1966, in Joliet, Illinois, to Fred and Kathleen Craven. From an early age, it was clear that Richard possessed a heart full of love and a spirit full of life. One of his favorite ways to show affection was through teasing and laughter — often at the expense of his brothers and sisters.
Growing up, life wasn’t always easy. His family faced financial challenges and moved often, but those experiences instilled in him the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance. Richard learned early that nothing worth having comes without effort — a lesson that would shape every part of his life.
He discovered his love for fishing, cars, and racing at a young age. Following in his father’s footsteps, Richard developed a lifelong passion for the track. It wasn't long before the track became his home away from home — a place where he spent countless Saturday nights cheering, racing, and later sponsoring cars under his business name.
A Love Story Built to Last
At just nineteen, two weeks after his birthday, Richard married his high school sweetheart, Annette. Their love story spanned 38 years — filled with laughter, challenges, and unbreakable devotion. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, hard work, and love.
A Father’s Journey
Richard’s journey as a father began early in life. At just seventeen, he welcomed his first son, Matt. Despite challenges, Richard never stopped thinking of his son, and when Matt reached out as an adult, the two were finally able to build the bond they had both been missing.
In time, Richard built a family with his wife, raising three children together — Anthony, Samantha, and Sara. He poured everything he had into providing for them, teaching by example what it meant to work hard, care deeply, and give generously.
Later in life, Richard’s greatest joy came from being a grandfather. With two granddaughters and four grandsons, he found pure happiness in watching them grow. Those who knew him take comfort in knowing that his love will live on through them.
Work, Community, and Compassion
Driven by determination and a relentless work ethic, Richard went from a roadside mechanic fresh out of high school to owning his own towing and repair shop by the age of 40.
The Battle and the Legacy
In October of 2021, Richard’s life changed when he was diagnosed with COVID-19. What followed was a 312-day battle that tested every ounce of his strength and faith.
Though his body ultimately gave out on March 21, 2023, his spirit never did. Richard’s final chapter was one of courage, love, and faith — a reminder that miracles do happen, and that true strength comes from the heart.
