William's Memory Wall
We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of William here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.
My deepest condolences to the Ast family. Rick will be truly missed. I and the Chicago Salmon Vintage Base Ball Team will miss him and his gentle and professional personality. We as a team looked forward to playing and having a meal together. Miss you buddy.
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Bob "ZEUS" Rzeszutko, Chicago Salmon
September 20th, 2024 at 1:36pm
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Rick's passing yesterday. Rick was always supportive of my efforts and he was the one who encouraged me to submit some of my article ideas to the Herald-Palladium. Rick was an outstanding reporter and individual and certainly made a positive impact on many lives in the community. . I am thinking of Rick's family at this time.
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Jonathan Wuepper
September 20th, 2024 at 2:31am
My condolences to the family and friends of William "Rick' Ast III. Rick was an exemplary reporter. His reporting was scrupulously accurate and informative. We desperately need reporters of his caliber today.
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Don Ryman
September 19th, 2024 at 1:15pm
Nancy and family, I'm sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I'll remember the good times back many years ago.
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Randy Lawton
September 18th, 2024 at 4:03pm
Nancy and family Sympathies to you in this terrible time. Rick was a delight to know, so knowledgeable on so many subjects.
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Nancy Steele Butzbach
September 17th, 2024 at 7:13pm
Dear Nancy and family, our deepest condolences and love to you during this time. May your wonderful memories hold you up and comfort you. Rick was a great friend, neighbor and just an all around great guy. Peace and prayers. Glenn and Kathy Ward
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Glenn and Kathy Ward
September 17th, 2024 at 4:27pm
To Rick's family: I was so shocked and couldn't believe that Ricky had passed on. He used to tell me that Viola and I were the only one's who still called him "Ricky". What a most wonderful guy ! In our Freshman year at LHS he wrote a story about " Mephistopholes". He had a great gift for words. And "The Barn" parties were something to behold ! My husband and I even drove from North Carolina to attend one. Please know that Ricky was loved and admired by so very many people. I know that he's now bringing joy to all in Heaven.
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Diana Dwan Poole
September 17th, 2024 at 2:20pm
To Rick’s family, I am very sorry for your loss. At Lakeshore High School, I played football and ran track with Rick, however what I remember most, was what a nice guy he was. Rick, Jerry Catania and I had many good times together during high school. I recall Rick, Jerry and I going to The House of David a few years ago when Rick told me he was still playing softball for the House of David. That’s when I told him he was the last jock standing. Although we only occasionally saw each other after high school, I will always remember what a kind and fun friend he was.
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Bill Cesaroni
September 17th, 2024 at 12:46pm
Nancy, Jenn and family, I am shocked. I’m saddened. I am at a loss for words, a condition Rick did not experience. His words were always well chosen and often eloquent. How do I pay tribute to a friend who had a positive influence on my life from early teen years until present? I will leave a simple quote he will doubtless recognize; “ You're worth the whole damn bunch put together." Go Green! Dan and Sharon Deja
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Dan and Sharon Deja
September 17th, 2024 at 10:16am
God bless the Ast family. You have our love and prayers during this difficult time.
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Josephine Doss-Smith & Family
September 16th, 2024 at 9:16pm
My deepest condolences to the family. I knew Rick from the years I worked at Lakeshore Public Schools and served as the recording secretary for the Board of Education meetings. He was always present at the board meetings to report any news about school issues. Rick was soft spoken, always smiling and always so very kind. He will surely be missed!
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Judy Deja Benjamin
September 16th, 2024 at 7:59pm
