Rich Chearo Obituary, Death – New Lenox Community Mourns Beloved Business Leader

Rich Chearo, a longtime small-business owner and respected member of the New Lenox, Illinois, community, has died, leaving family, friends, employees, customers and others mourning his loss.

According to a heartfelt tribute shared by Colleen, Rich died early in the morning surrounded by loved ones. He was described as comfortable and surrounded by care during his final moments, with those close to him remembering him as a fearless leader who consistently put his best effort into serving others.

Rich’s life was closely connected to the restaurant community through Rich’s Pizza Joint & Fattys. Over 18 years, the business grew into more than a restaurant, becoming a gathering place where families shared meals, friends came together and customers celebrated important moments.

Remembering Rich Chearo

The business began with its Tinley Park location, which operated from 2008 until 2019. After facing significant challenges, including a major increase in rent, the business eventually relocated while continuing to build its identity around quality food, customer service, creativity and community.

Rich’s Pizza Joint & Fattys became known for Chicago thin pizza, handcrafted dough and specialty creations, including the Big Fatty, Mother Clucker, Double Trouble and Birria Fatty.

The tribute to Rich also reflected the realities he faced as an entrepreneur. Rising expenses, repairs, staffing difficulties and unexpected setbacks were among the challenges that came with running a small business, yet Rich continued working to keep the business moving forward.

For those who knew him personally, his influence went far beyond the restaurant. He was remembered as a friend, leader and someone who believed strongly in serving others and building genuine connections with the people around him.

As word of his death spreads, members of the New Lenox and surrounding communities are reflecting on Rich’s years of friendship, leadership and service. His family, employees, customers and friends are now left with memories of a man whose work became closely intertwined with the community he served.

Rich Chearo will be remembered for the relationships he built, the business he helped create and the many people who found friendship, connection and memorable moments through the community he helped foster.