Richard O. Deignan, (Dick, DD, “Mr. D”) age 76, of Miller Beach, Indiana, passed away on January 13, 2015. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to so many, Dick lived most of his life in Munster, IN where he raised his family, hosted fantastic parties, cooked amazing meals, made life long friends andContinue Reading
Richard O. Deignan, (Dick, DD, “Mr. D”) age 76, of Miller Beach, Indiana, passed away on January 13, 2015. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to so many, Dick lived most of his life in Munster, IN where he raised his family, hosted fantastic parties, cooked amazing meals, made life long friends and was a long-time supporter of the Munster Booster Club.Before marriage, family and a successful career as Supreme Commander of his Burger King franchise, Dick enjoyed life as a Hawkeye in Iowa City, and served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Hugh Purvis.He follows his cherished wife, Joan who left us too early, on February 12, 1990. Survived by his children, Kerry (Richard) Roy, and Owen (Julie) Deignan; granddaughters, Brigid, Erin and Devin; brother, Robert (Ann) Deignan, brother in law Robert (Sarah) Lessman; nieces Amy (Paul) Manganelli; Julie Deignan, Jane (Matt) Sobolewski, and Kathleen Lessman; and nephews John (Anna) Deignan and Tim (Toria) Lessman.Friends may visit with the family on Saturday, January 17, 2015 between 1:00-5:00 pm at the Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Ave Munster, IN. In lieu of flowers, please consider celebrating his generous spirit by making a donation in his name to the cause of your choice, or any one of the many organizations he supported during his impactful life: The Munster Booster Club, The American Cancer Society, or Alverno College in Milwaukee.
Nick
left a message on February 22, 2023:
DD, aka Supreme Commander, was the best ever. I was a friend of his children and I think he was a great man.
First to introduce me to sushi, edible flowers and many other things. Love you, DD.
Nick
left a message on February 22, 2023:
DD, aka Supreme Commander, was the best ever. I was a friend of his children and I think he was a great man.
First to introduce me to sushi, edible flowers and many other things. Love you, DD.
Mark Cleve
left a message on January 20, 2015:
Kerry & Owen,Your father was an admirable man. I remember him from many St. Thomas More events. I remember him as Note Dame's #1 fan, and of course, the Mr D of Captain D's! He was a strong leader and great influence on many of the STM boys. I am sure he carried that legacy on as a grandfather. My deepest condolences to your family and I hope these many fond memories left here add to your remembrances of his great legacy. Mark Cleve
Nancy Engel
left a message on January 19, 2015:
You are and always will be an inspiration to me to live my life to its fullest, to be happy, be kind, pay it forward, help a friend, a neighbor and even the person next to me in a check out line if needed. Your legacy will live on forever and so will my fond memories of time spent with you.Until we meet again, Nancy
Mary & Jack Higgins
left a message on January 19, 2015:
Great tributes to a great person. Even though born a twin, Dick was one of a kind. We first met the Deignan family in November of 1977, a couple of days after moving to Munster. We knew soon after that the Deignan's would be life long friends and extended family, which has turned out to be the case. Just like so many others have indicated, Dick (and Joan) allowed the Higgins family to have so many great experiences that we might never wise have had. Dick's generosity, energy, zest for life were unsurpassed. Wealth for Dick was only something to shared with family, friends and acquaintances. He was the ultimate event planner. His bucket list was never ending. We will miss Dick enormously, as we have missed Joan. He treated our family as his. We and our children are blessed to have met the Deignan family. Kerry and Owen will always be a part of our extended family. We love you.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Thomas Ellison
left a message on January 19, 2015:
I can't even begin to say how much Mr. D meant to me. He took and showed me places and things I would have never been able to see or experience. He was a very special person in many peoples lives and will be tremendously missed. He was like a father to me. To Kerry and Owen, I am deeply sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
Clint Ellison
left a message on January 18, 2015:
I really liked Dick. I will miss him.
Dave and Aime Abramovitz
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Met Dick when I was back in college with Owen, he saw I was drinking scotch and coke...said I was ruining the scotch suggested I change my style to tall with water. Dick was an amazing man no matter how long it was in between seeing him. Our prayers to the family, he will be missed.Dave and Aimee Abramovitz
Bill Patterson
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Spending time with Dick touched my life in many profound ways. Thank you for sharing!
Amber Allen
left a message on January 17, 2015:
What a kind-hearted, generous, fun, and sweet man! I love that those same qualities shine on in his children. I am so glad to have known Dick and spent so many fun times together, and I’m so sorry for your loss, Kerry and Owen.
Mike and Donna Lamb
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Mike and I will forever be grateful to Dick for his tremendous generosity, friendship and mentorship as we began our journey into the restaurant industry. From Vegas, to Indy, to Chicago and Colorado our memories are filled with great times and stories we will cherish always. He truly taught us to live life to the fullest! In 1996, when our first son was born, boxes of clothes, gifts and a baby blanket arrived on our porch. (Evan still has this on his bed today!) When we had him over for dinner, I casually mentioned that I didn't have a serrated knife. A week later an entire set arrived. We always joked that If I had known, I would have "casually" mentioned that I never had a Porsche. Once ( and only once) he allowed me to order the wines for a dinner for 12 of us that lasted many hours. After that night, he never allowed me to see the wine list when we went out. Some may say he taught me too well! Our New Years Eve's spent in Steamboat were filled with hours of laughter over wonderfully and skillfully prepared meals. To this day we still make the "Mr. D" salad. He obviously touched many of our lives with his huge heart and love for life. We will all remember him for years to come as we recall our own stories that will begin with "Remember that time Dick..." We offer our sincere condolences to all his family and friends and offer one final toast: "Love you Mr.D. Cheers!"Donna & Mike Lamb
Joe Thoesen
left a message on January 17, 2015:
I have read many of these condolence messages. How do I describe " the most generous man I have ever known ". Since first meeting in the Grand Canyon family raft trip, where our boat became known as " in excess". DD had allot to do with the fun, frivolity, and adventure we all shared during that trip, ending up in Vegas. That set the tone for times together for the next 25 years. Many skiing trips, Chicago reasturants, Burger King conventions, Indy parties, etc etc. Mr. Hospitality was always at the center with open arms, great wit, and more often than not picking up the tab. I can go on and on, but what is truly evident reading these, DD touched so many lives in a very positive way. I will truly miss one of my best friends.
Larry and Bonnie Miller
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Cherished memories of our meet-ups in Vegas, and one terrific California Thanksgiving, where Dick and Larry produced a "blackened" turkey. One-of-a-kind, and delicious. Every event he hosted for us was flawless, and debonair. We will miss him so much. Heart-felt sympathy to the Deignan family
Jill Harvieux Pitner
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Dick Deignan- a loving father, a wonderful mentor, a generous man, and always fun. Dick had an extraordinary talent for connecting with people and making them feel like close friends or family. He will be missed by the many people that he touched along the way. Spending time with Dick during our college days meant having good times and good food too. I especially remember carpaccio at Givanni's. In Chicago, Dick hosted my wedding shower overlooking Lake Michigan. It was a pretty amazing summer evening with good friends. Dick attended my wedding and visited our home in Denver, too. He will forever be a very special man to me and remembered for his generous spirit, genuine caring, and love. Something I noticed and have tried to emulate is Dick's ability to mentor. He was always willing to listen, give advice and guide others. Kerry and Owen, thanks for sharing your dad with me/us and for being a part of so many wonderful memories.
Liz Connolley
left a message on January 16, 2015:
Dick was such a kind and good-humored person. He was friendly and generous to everyone. His Fourth of July parties were so special; even it were raining, we'd all have a great time. My deepest sympathies go to his family at this great loss. He will be missed.
Suzanne Roy Note
left a message on January 16, 2015:
Although I have only had the pleasure of spending time with Dick a handful of times, I will always remember his constant smile, big heart and love of life. He was truly a fun loving and free spirited man. One of the best things I have received from Dick is a beautiful, fun loving and gracious sister-in-law! May you rest in peace Dick. You will be missed by many.
Dave Roach
left a message on January 16, 2015:
I loved Dick like a father, He touched my life personally and professionally. We know that he's at peace and in a better place, however, there's an empty feeling in the hearts of those that knew and loved this man.I also know that you and Kerry grew up without Mom in your life. (She would be so proud) I saw personally how important it was to Dick to get a business off the ground and continue his commitment as a Father to raise the two of you. I know he spent countless hours in his car between home and Indy. That alone speaks volumes to what kind of a Father/Man he was...I can't begin to count the number of people he helped start a business that otherwise wouldn't had the opportunity.Know that Mom and Dad are together, as he always wanted to be....There are sooooo many great memories that all of us shared with him..For as long as I live I'll have a special place in my heart for that MAN..Love you all! DRoach
Aaron Evans
left a message on January 16, 2015:
I was lucky enough to meet DIck around 1996 when I became friends with son Owen. Every time I met or saw Dick he was always smiling. He was eternally generous to others with his energy and his love for life/food/wine or whatever. I was always be very grateful for having him in my life and how he lived life. Thanks Dick.A
Bob DeLaria
left a message on January 15, 2015:
I first met Dick in Iowa City while Kerry attended the U of I. What a wonderful man, he treated me and everyone he met like family. A truly genuine man! I all ways wanted to put "Supreme Commander" on a business card, I will never forget that! He could outlast us all at the Yacht Club or Monkey's!
Randy Gluth
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Dick will be missed! I'm short on words as normal - but I rabble to much (thus Ramblin Randy). Thinking back he made me a better person - Dick's loving attitude, kindness, welcoming personality and primo cooking was something, no one will match. His generosity to others is something he will all ways be remembered for in my eyes.Kerry & Owen - feel blessed you had such a wonder father, grandfather, and true gentlemen and my friend ... for as long as you had.He will be missed by everyone he crossed paths with - guaranteed!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
.Anna Schliesman
left a message on January 15, 2015:
I met Dick when he purchased the Burger King restaurants in Indianapolis. What a wonderful man. He was my boss a mentor and fun loving guy. He treated us as family. There will never be another like him God broke that mold making him. I am so sorry for your loss may you find peace knowing he will be in the hearts of many forever. Thanks for sharing him with us in Indy for all those years
Susie Vaughan (Higgins)
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Where to begin....so many awesome memories of DD. From countless indy 500s (mf sandwich company), lobster bakes, weekend family trips to the city (with DD smoking a cigar in an enclosed car- we were green by the time we got there), trips to lake delevan, keystone, steamboat, seattle (final four), superbowls, Paris (five star of course, Dick knew no other way). I will never forget the countless Burger King goodies-I was the only one at U of I with Burger King reebok tennis shoes (except for probably Kristen Keen of course). You made life fun and exciting! When we moved to Munster, who would have known we would have made such incredible family friends!! Of all the streets in Munster, thank goodness we ended up on Chestnut Lane!! DD, you will be missed.
Sandy Trilli and Family
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Our family enjoyed sharing time with the Deigan family while in Munster. Dick was always a joy to be around. Our sincere condolences to the family. He will be dearly missed. Sandy Trilli and Family
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Nick
left a message on February 22, 2023:
DD, aka Supreme Commander, was the best ever. I was a friend of his children and I think he was a great man.
First to introduce me to sushi, edible flowers and many other things. Love you, DD.
Nick
left a message on February 22, 2023:
DD, aka Supreme Commander, was the best ever. I was a friend of his children and I think he was a great man.
First to introduce me to sushi, edible flowers and many other things. Love you, DD.
Mark Cleve
left a message on January 20, 2015:
Kerry & Owen,Your father was an admirable man. I remember him from many St. Thomas More events. I remember him as Note Dame's #1 fan, and of course, the Mr D of Captain D's! He was a strong leader and great influence on many of the STM boys. I am sure he carried that legacy on as a grandfather. My deepest condolences to your family and I hope these many fond memories left here add to your remembrances of his great legacy. Mark Cleve
Nancy Engel
left a message on January 19, 2015:
You are and always will be an inspiration to me to live my life to its fullest, to be happy, be kind, pay it forward, help a friend, a neighbor and even the person next to me in a check out line if needed. Your legacy will live on forever and so will my fond memories of time spent with you.Until we meet again, Nancy
Mary & Jack Higgins
left a message on January 19, 2015:
Great tributes to a great person. Even though born a twin, Dick was one of a kind. We first met the Deignan family in November of 1977, a couple of days after moving to Munster. We knew soon after that the Deignan's would be life long friends and extended family, which has turned out to be the case. Just like so many others have indicated, Dick (and Joan) allowed the Higgins family to have so many great experiences that we might never wise have had. Dick's generosity, energy, zest for life were unsurpassed. Wealth for Dick was only something to shared with family, friends and acquaintances. He was the ultimate event planner. His bucket list was never ending. We will miss Dick enormously, as we have missed Joan. He treated our family as his. We and our children are blessed to have met the Deignan family. Kerry and Owen will always be a part of our extended family. We love you.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Thomas Ellison
left a message on January 19, 2015:
I can't even begin to say how much Mr. D meant to me. He took and showed me places and things I would have never been able to see or experience. He was a very special person in many peoples lives and will be tremendously missed. He was like a father to me. To Kerry and Owen, I am deeply sorry for your loss. He will be missed by many.
Clint Ellison
left a message on January 18, 2015:
I really liked Dick. I will miss him.
Dave and Aime Abramovitz
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Met Dick when I was back in college with Owen, he saw I was drinking scotch and coke...said I was ruining the scotch suggested I change my style to tall with water. Dick was an amazing man no matter how long it was in between seeing him. Our prayers to the family, he will be missed.Dave and Aimee Abramovitz
Bill Patterson
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Spending time with Dick touched my life in many profound ways. Thank you for sharing!
Amber Allen
left a message on January 17, 2015:
What a kind-hearted, generous, fun, and sweet man! I love that those same qualities shine on in his children. I am so glad to have known Dick and spent so many fun times together, and I’m so sorry for your loss, Kerry and Owen.
Mike and Donna Lamb
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Mike and I will forever be grateful to Dick for his tremendous generosity, friendship and mentorship as we began our journey into the restaurant industry. From Vegas, to Indy, to Chicago and Colorado our memories are filled with great times and stories we will cherish always. He truly taught us to live life to the fullest! In 1996, when our first son was born, boxes of clothes, gifts and a baby blanket arrived on our porch. (Evan still has this on his bed today!) When we had him over for dinner, I casually mentioned that I didn't have a serrated knife. A week later an entire set arrived. We always joked that If I had known, I would have "casually" mentioned that I never had a Porsche. Once ( and only once) he allowed me to order the wines for a dinner for 12 of us that lasted many hours. After that night, he never allowed me to see the wine list when we went out. Some may say he taught me too well! Our New Years Eve's spent in Steamboat were filled with hours of laughter over wonderfully and skillfully prepared meals. To this day we still make the "Mr. D" salad. He obviously touched many of our lives with his huge heart and love for life. We will all remember him for years to come as we recall our own stories that will begin with "Remember that time Dick..." We offer our sincere condolences to all his family and friends and offer one final toast: "Love you Mr.D. Cheers!"Donna & Mike Lamb
Joe Thoesen
left a message on January 17, 2015:
I have read many of these condolence messages. How do I describe " the most generous man I have ever known ". Since first meeting in the Grand Canyon family raft trip, where our boat became known as " in excess". DD had allot to do with the fun, frivolity, and adventure we all shared during that trip, ending up in Vegas. That set the tone for times together for the next 25 years. Many skiing trips, Chicago reasturants, Burger King conventions, Indy parties, etc etc. Mr. Hospitality was always at the center with open arms, great wit, and more often than not picking up the tab. I can go on and on, but what is truly evident reading these, DD touched so many lives in a very positive way. I will truly miss one of my best friends.
Larry and Bonnie Miller
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Cherished memories of our meet-ups in Vegas, and one terrific California Thanksgiving, where Dick and Larry produced a "blackened" turkey. One-of-a-kind, and delicious. Every event he hosted for us was flawless, and debonair. We will miss him so much. Heart-felt sympathy to the Deignan family
Jill Harvieux Pitner
left a message on January 17, 2015:
Dick Deignan- a loving father, a wonderful mentor, a generous man, and always fun. Dick had an extraordinary talent for connecting with people and making them feel like close friends or family. He will be missed by the many people that he touched along the way. Spending time with Dick during our college days meant having good times and good food too. I especially remember carpaccio at Givanni's. In Chicago, Dick hosted my wedding shower overlooking Lake Michigan. It was a pretty amazing summer evening with good friends. Dick attended my wedding and visited our home in Denver, too. He will forever be a very special man to me and remembered for his generous spirit, genuine caring, and love. Something I noticed and have tried to emulate is Dick's ability to mentor. He was always willing to listen, give advice and guide others. Kerry and Owen, thanks for sharing your dad with me/us and for being a part of so many wonderful memories.
Liz Connolley
left a message on January 16, 2015:
Dick was such a kind and good-humored person. He was friendly and generous to everyone. His Fourth of July parties were so special; even it were raining, we'd all have a great time. My deepest sympathies go to his family at this great loss. He will be missed.
Suzanne Roy Note
left a message on January 16, 2015:
Although I have only had the pleasure of spending time with Dick a handful of times, I will always remember his constant smile, big heart and love of life. He was truly a fun loving and free spirited man. One of the best things I have received from Dick is a beautiful, fun loving and gracious sister-in-law! May you rest in peace Dick. You will be missed by many.
Dave Roach
left a message on January 16, 2015:
I loved Dick like a father, He touched my life personally and professionally. We know that he's at peace and in a better place, however, there's an empty feeling in the hearts of those that knew and loved this man.I also know that you and Kerry grew up without Mom in your life. (She would be so proud) I saw personally how important it was to Dick to get a business off the ground and continue his commitment as a Father to raise the two of you. I know he spent countless hours in his car between home and Indy. That alone speaks volumes to what kind of a Father/Man he was...I can't begin to count the number of people he helped start a business that otherwise wouldn't had the opportunity.Know that Mom and Dad are together, as he always wanted to be....There are sooooo many great memories that all of us shared with him..For as long as I live I'll have a special place in my heart for that MAN..Love you all! DRoach
Aaron Evans
left a message on January 16, 2015:
I was lucky enough to meet DIck around 1996 when I became friends with son Owen. Every time I met or saw Dick he was always smiling. He was eternally generous to others with his energy and his love for life/food/wine or whatever. I was always be very grateful for having him in my life and how he lived life. Thanks Dick.A
Bob DeLaria
left a message on January 15, 2015:
I first met Dick in Iowa City while Kerry attended the U of I. What a wonderful man, he treated me and everyone he met like family. A truly genuine man! I all ways wanted to put "Supreme Commander" on a business card, I will never forget that! He could outlast us all at the Yacht Club or Monkey's!
Randy Gluth
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Dick will be missed! I'm short on words as normal - but I rabble to much (thus Ramblin Randy). Thinking back he made me a better person - Dick's loving attitude, kindness, welcoming personality and primo cooking was something, no one will match. His generosity to others is something he will all ways be remembered for in my eyes.Kerry & Owen - feel blessed you had such a wonder father, grandfather, and true gentlemen and my friend ... for as long as you had.He will be missed by everyone he crossed paths with - guaranteed!
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
.Anna Schliesman
left a message on January 15, 2015:
I met Dick when he purchased the Burger King restaurants in Indianapolis. What a wonderful man. He was my boss a mentor and fun loving guy. He treated us as family. There will never be another like him God broke that mold making him. I am so sorry for your loss may you find peace knowing he will be in the hearts of many forever. Thanks for sharing him with us in Indy for all those years
Susie Vaughan (Higgins)
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Where to begin....so many awesome memories of DD. From countless indy 500s (mf sandwich company), lobster bakes, weekend family trips to the city (with DD smoking a cigar in an enclosed car- we were green by the time we got there), trips to lake delevan, keystone, steamboat, seattle (final four), superbowls, Paris (five star of course, Dick knew no other way). I will never forget the countless Burger King goodies-I was the only one at U of I with Burger King reebok tennis shoes (except for probably Kristen Keen of course). You made life fun and exciting! When we moved to Munster, who would have known we would have made such incredible family friends!! Of all the streets in Munster, thank goodness we ended up on Chestnut Lane!! DD, you will be missed.
Sandy Trilli and Family
left a message on January 15, 2015:
Our family enjoyed sharing time with the Deigan family while in Munster. Dick was always a joy to be around. Our sincere condolences to the family. He will be dearly missed. Sandy Trilli and Family
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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