Richard A. Letizia

Richard Alan Letizia, age 66, known to everyone as Rick, was born on July 8, 1959, in Syracuse, New York and passed away on January 12, 2026 in Long Grove, Illinois.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda A. Perkovich nee Feldman, and his stepsons, Kyle and Evan Perkovich, whom he loved and supported as his own. He is also survived by his siblings, Sandra (Dudley) Carroll, Donna Boone, Bill (Amy) Letizia, and Bridget Letizia. He was a devoted and loving uncle to his nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso Letizia and Leonore Irene Duerr Letizia. Rick attended Cocopah Elementary School and Chaparral High School, where he graduated as valedictorian. He later graduated from Arizona State University in Tempe, earning his bachelor’s degree in Business.

He went on to co-found and serve as CEO of Wholesome Goodness, bringing with him decades of senior leadership experience across some of the most respected food companies in North America, including Kraft Foods, McCain Foods, Maple Leaf Foods, and Millennium Custom Foods. Rick was a true builder—known for his sharp instincts, operational discipline, and ability to create and lead a company. Wholesome Goodness was not just a company to him; it was a reflection of his standards of excellence, his grit, and his commitment to building something lasting.

Rick lived life fully and on his own terms. He competed in downhill skiing, loved music, and was a lifelong musician—most at home with a trombone or behind a drum kit. He was fiercely loyal to those he loved, especially his dogs, Sophia, Emilie, and Hampton, who were truly family to him.

Rick was the ultimate all-around dad—equally supporting wrestling, football, Taekwon Do, and horse shows—with pride, humor, and unwavering presence. He showed up. Always.

Most recently, Rick and Brenda shared a deeply special trip to Rome, Italy, celebrating twenty years of marriage—a milestone that reflected the partnership, resilience, and love they built together.

The Perkovich-Letizia family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire Wholesome Goodness family for their support, kindness, and love.

Linden Funerals & Cremation - 120 Peterson Road, Libertyville, IL 60048  For more info. call - 224-331-6330