WATERFORD –The earth lost a great man in Richard L. Vail onJuly 12, 2015. He passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Dick was born on November 20, 1934 in Janesville, WI to Sadie (Boland) and Frank Vail. He graduated from Janesville High School and married the love of his life, Barbara Taylor on May 18, 1957. He worked faithfully for the Janesville Gazette as a printer for 15 years and the Racine Journal for four. Blessed with a knack for business, he became a manager and partner of Total Furniture in Sturtevant and served in that role for 17 years. Dick was in the National Guard, a Boy Scout leader and active in St. Louis Church in Caledonia for many years before moving to Tichigan Lake in Waterford. He and Barb participated in Meals on Wheels for many years. Dick is remembered for his admirable generosity, his willingness to lend a hand, his humble spirit and his deep love for his wife and family. He enjoyed joking, watching the sunset over the lake and dessert with every meal. He was quick with a smile and never knew a stranger. He spent hours rocking in his favorite chair – holding first the children, then grandchildren and then great grandchildren. Dick traveled, played games and tinkered with things until he had the biggest and best on the block. He spent winters in Florida with Barb and welcomed guest after guest into his home. Those who knew him are better people because of him. He is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Barb Vail; loving children Tim (Cindy Panke) Vail, Bob (Wendy) Vail, Larry (Angie) Vail, Jeff Vail and Dan (Michelle) Vail; cherished grandchildren Chris (Stefani) Vail, Katie (Kevin) Wyskochil, Ashley (Grant) Buenger, Adam (Callie) Vail, Austen Vail, Andrew Vail, and Aidan Vail; and precious great-grandchildren Blake, Leila and one on the way. Further survived by his sister, Sue Bratsven of California, brother-in-law, John Taylor of Texas, nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Gone before him were his parents and 6 siblings. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2015 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church S89 W22650 Milwaukee Ave., Big Bend, WI Fr. Charlie Zabler officiating. Private interment in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Janesville, WI. The family will receive guests on Friday from 5-7 p.m. in Strouf Funeral Home and on Saturday in Church from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Milwaukee Rescue Mission or the Racine Food Bank with the appreciation of the family.;