Richard Eugene Tuntland, age 75, of Norway, Illinois, passed away at his home on February 21, 2025. Born on August 14, 1949, in Ottawa, Illinois, Richard was the son of the late Eugene and Florence (Sebby) Tuntland.
Richard graduated from Serena High School in 1967. He proudly served his country as an Army medic in Germany from 1969 to 1971. His military service was followed by a life rooted in service, community, and faith.
Richard had a deep passion for farming where he worked alongside his brother Dave for most of his life. He was an active member of the American Legion Post #0729, a LaSalle County Farm Bureau member, and dedicated much of his time to local civic duties, including serving as a Mission Township trustee and Zoning Board member. He was the treasurer and sexton of the Norway Cemetery and held many responsibilities as a lifelong member of Fox River Lutheran Church. He was also employed by Carquest Auto Parts for over 30 years and became a familiar face to many as a daily visitor to the Norway Store. A fan of local sports, particularly Serena athletics, Richard enjoyed supporting the community he loved and that loved him back.
He is survived by his brother, David Tuntland (Lori Chelsen) of Serena; his sisters, Annette Bruce of Ottawa and Kathy Autio (John) of Greenville, Michigan; his nieces: Julia Villereal (Nate) of Belmont, Michigan; Kirsti Autio of Hazel Park, Michigan; Shelley Galloway (Chris) of Elburn; Erin Muffler (Keith) of Serena; and Jenny Tuntland of Ottawa; and his great-nephews and great-nieces, Nolan and Nora Villereal, Ryne and Dylan Galloway, Maxwell Muffler, and Sienna Giannotti. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister-in-law, Kathleen Tuntland.
Pallbearers will be Keith Muffler, Chris Galloway, Nate Villereal, Mark Sebby, Alan Weber, and Kyle Mason. Honorary pallbearers will be Dan Mason, Roger Knight, Gary Kempiak, and Chuck Borchsenius.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at Mueller Funeral Home Saturday March 1st with visitation 9am-11am and a service at 11am with Rev. John Autio officiating. A burial will follow at Norway Cemetery with full military rights conducted by the Sheridan American Legion.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Norway Cemetery Association or the American Legion Post #0729.
Richard’s legacy of love, service, and commitment to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433