Richard Mulcahey

Richard Thomas “Dick” Mulcahey, of Durand, Illinois, Lake Summerset, passed away peacefully at home on September 24, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by loved ones.

Dick was born on March 22, 1935, in Rockford, Illinois to Robert and Marcella Mulcahey. He lived a life marked by service, devotion, and deep commitment to his community. Dick attended Saint Thomas Academy in Rockford and, shortly after graduating high school, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Serving with the 1st Marine Division from 1954 to 1956, he completed his military service with an honorable discharge.

Following his time in the Marine Corps, Dick pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in history from Wisconsin State University–Platteville and later completing graduate work at the University of Illinois. During this time, he met the love of his life, Anna Mae Cox. They were married on February 1, 1958, and shared a devoted and joyful 68 year marriage.

Dick began his teaching and coaching career in Galena, Illinois, where he and Anna Mae were active participants in the Galena Community Theater. In 1968, the family moved to Durand, where Dick continued his vocation as a teacher and coach, shaping the lives of countless students through his passion for history, government, civic engagement, and athletics.

In 1974, Dick was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives, representing northwest Illinois. During his tenure, he chaired the House Education Committee, was widely respected for his ability to work collaboratively with colleagues across the General Assembly and known for representing all citizens of his district, with fairness and integrity.

After retiring from the legislature, Dick embraced a new calling. He was ordained to the Permanent Diaconate by most Rev. Bishop Arthur J. O’Neill and faithfully served as a deacon for the parishes of St. Mary’s in Durand and St. Patrick’s in Irish Grove beginning in 1996. His ministry was marked by compassion, humility, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.

Dick Mulcahey’s life was defined by service to his country, his students, his community, his faith, and above all, his family. His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched and the example he set through a lifetime of purpose, kindness, and devotion. For those who knew him, Dick “Never had a bad day. Some days were better than others, but never a bad day.”

He is preceded in death by his wife Anna Mae, parents, and sister Peg Wirtz. Dick is survived by his sister Marge Rosellini and six children: Rick (Maryanne), Susan Alberstett (Mike), Barbara Hickey (Paul), Marty, John (Kristi), and Megan Bower (Joe), along with 27 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at McCorkle Funeral Home in Durand, Illinois on October 1 from 4pm – 7pm. Visitation will also be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Durand on October 2 from 10am-10:30am with mass to follow. Interment at St. Patrick’s Irish Grove Cemetery.