Richard P. Taskonis, 75, of Kenosha, passed away on Monday, January 16, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Kenosha, on April 1, 1947, he was the son of the late John and Agnes (Aiello) Taskonis. A lifelong resident of Kenosha, he was educated at St. Casimir Catholic School, graduated from Mary D. Bradford High School, and received his degree in computer science from Gateway Technical College. On October 25, 1969, he married Karen Ann Diener at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. Richie worked in IT and marketing for Tenneco Automotive for many years and retired in 2005. In his retirement, he worked as a cook at the Italian American Society, and participated in their men’s club and bocce league. He was passionate about his volunteering with the Kenosha Special Olympics, Kenosha Velodrome Racing, St. Mark’s Catholic Church’s Shows-a-poppin’, the Knights of Columbus, and was a member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He enjoyed traveling extensively, cooking, entertaining his friends, and spending time with his family. Over the last 20 years, he fully embraced being a grandfather, and his identity became “Yaya”. He was proud of his Italian and Lithuanian heritage. Survivors include his wife: Karen Taskonis; three children: Kari (Mark) Foss, Cory (Crystal) Taskonis, and Kristan (Brian Feest) Binninger; eight grandchildren: Lucy, Marcus, Cesar, Jelena, Sabreena, Emmanuel, Hunter, and Mason; a great-grandchild: Jamani; and a brother-in-law: Rod (Bonnie) Diener. Aside from his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother: Joseph Taskonis; his in-laws: Fred and Ethel Diener; and two brothers-in-law: Todd and Scott Diener. Visitation will take place on Friday, January 27, 2023, at Proko Funeral Home, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. with a closing eulogy service. A Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 7307 40th Avenue, at 9:00 a.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to Kenosha Velodrome Racing, Wisconsin Special Olympics, or Hospice Alliance Pleasant Prairie would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th Street Kenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Richie’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Gary Ladousa
January 26, 2023
We met Rich when Gary and Rich were students at Gateway. Our condolences to Karen and the family. The world is sadder because we lost one of the good guys.Gary and Kathy Ladousa
Mike Serpe
January 25, 2023
Always a smile on his face but he beamed most when in in the company of his beloved Karen and their family.Richie’s life was full of love and service to his community.I and sure that his memory will be a blessing and comfort to Karen, their family, and their friends
Donna Strupp
January 24, 2023
Karen and family, So very sorry to hear about Rich.What a kind and funny man he was. He would walk across the street and visit with my husband Jim, both making jokes and enjoying each others company. My prayers to you, Karen, and your family. Wishing wonderful memories to carry you thru this difficult time.He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in Peace Rich.
Richard Weber
January 22, 2023
He was one of our ski group . He always kept us laughing. Dick Weber
Peggy Rose
January 20, 2023
Karen and family, Vern and I have such wonderful memories of Richie throughout our friendship. We had many laughs, giggles, and parties. I know his road has been difficult in recent years, but he still kept us laughing. He will be missed. May Rich now rest in peace and the family find comfort in knowing he is at peace.
Linda & Dave Sherfinski
January 20, 2023
Riichie was such a friendly guy, always had a smile and a hug or joke for everyone. He will be missed by many. May your memories carry you through this difficult time.
Joyce & Ozzie Sorensen
January 17, 2023
Karen and family,Throughout this difficult time and all that lies ahead, may the sympathy of others bring some comfort to your hearts. Rich was such a fun person to meet up with and reminisce about St. Casimir's school classes and high school. What a smile and laugh!
Rod Diener
January 17, 2023
Where to start with this wonderful human? Loving, caring father, the best husband my sister could ever hope for, active in community affairs, cheerleader for all his grandkids, provider, a hearty laugh, boundless optimism, a prankster of the highest skills, best brother in law I could ever hope to have. Rich was a good man, an honest man, lived life to its fullest, regrets? maybe he had a few, don't we all? Flaws? None that I know of. He wore shoes that will, and can never be filled again, he was bigger than life, and I'm thankfull I was part of his life for nearly 60 years. Rest well Rich, we'll meet again....
Joan HUBER
January 17, 2023
God bless Richie. Sat next to you at St Casimir Elementary School and we were friends from that day on. We both picked October 25 for our wedding day. Roy and I enjoyed your meals at the IA and it was so great to talk to you there. My prayers are with Karen and family. ❤️🌹