William “Rick” Richard Baas age 77, passed away on August 19,2026 in The Villages, Florida with his loving wife at his side.

Rick was born on November 12th 1948 to William Edward Baas and Hazel Ann Wendt in Chicago. He grew up in Broadview, Illinois and attended Northern Illinois University. He served in the army reserves during the Vietnam War. He went on to build a meaningful career in management at Goodyear Tire, where he worked for 40+ years before retiring.

In 2016 Rick found love. He was reunited with a Proviso East High School friend, Coral Koch Murphy at their 50th high school reunion. In 2020, they married. Over the last Seven years, they shared a beautiful partnership filled with travel, puzzles, Cubs World Club and serving in church. She brought happiness and companionship to his final years.

Rick was known for his passion for Chess, the Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears.

He was a dedicated baseball player in his early years; a '1st-in-state' hockey team member in high school; and a devoted tennis player in his adult life.

He is survived by his beloved wife of seven years, Coral Koch Murphy; his loving children, Brandon Baas and Spouse Kristy, and Becky Baas; his adored grandchildren, Bryson and Kendall; and his Brother Wayne Baas and Sister Kat. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Marilyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Edward Baas and Hazel Ann Wendt. A celebration of Rick's life will be held on October 2nd, 1:30pm at Live Oaks Community Church Southern Oaks Campus, 5600 Heritage Blvd, Wildwood, FL 34785. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Live Oaks Community Church, https://liveoakschurch.org/give