Richard "Dick" Shrode's Obituary
On September 6, 2023, the world lost a great man when Richard “Dick” Shrode passed away with his family by his side in Fort Myers, Florida. Dick was born in Highland Park, Michigan on November 2, 1944 to Helen (Kidd) and Wilford Shrode. Dick was both a talented athlete and student, and he excelled in many endeavors while growing up in Blue Island, Illinois. He became an Eagle Scout, played baseball, football, and tennis, and was the captain of his high school football and tennis teams. Upon graduation from high school, he enrolled at the University of Illinois, where he continued pursuing his love of sports by playing baseball. He entered the United States Marine Corps in 1967 and became the Honor Man of his platoon and a decorated soldier during the Vietnam War. After the War, he finished college and married Johanna (“Jamie” Salamone) in a union that would last over 51 years. Throughout their years together, they had two daughters whom he adored. Dick pursued a successful career as an executive in manufacturing that enabled his family to live in several states throughout the country, enjoying long-lasting friendships with many different groups of people he met throughout his life and career.
After years of hard work, Dick retired and spent his final years in Southwest Florida, where he enjoyed golfing, watching the Chicago Cubs and Fighting Illini, seeing friends, and, most of all, spending time with his family. Dick was the consummate husband, father, grandfather and friend, and he will be remembered for his loyalty, integrity, strength, selflessness, and sense of humor. Dick fought a years-long battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis with courage, grace, and dignity. He will be greatly missed by the many who knew and loved him.
Dick is survived by his wife Jamie, daughters Jodie M. Shrode and Kristine A. Shrode, and granddaughters Emma Rose Shrode and Hannah Grace Shrode, all of Estero, Florida. Also survived by a sister, Diane (Doug) Foster of Estero, Florida, in-laws Toni Logli, David (Patti) Salamone, and Tina (Karl) Dundore, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers Wilford (Pat) Shrode and Jack (Lynn) Shrode, and brother-in-law Joseph Logli.
The Shrode family thanks the wonderful staff of Gulf Coast Medical Center for the kind and compassionate care he received during his final days.
The Shrode family has entrusted Fort Myers Memorial Gardens with the care of his final arrangements. Please check this website (https://www.fortmyersmemorial.com/) for updates on a Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, the Family would appreciate any donations made in Dick’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Ronald McDonald House Charities, or another charity of your choosing.
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