Richard James Conrad

Richard Conrad, known affectionately as “Dick” to family and friends, passed away on March 1, 2026, after a valiant battle with complications from Parkinson’s Disease and MSA (multiple system atrophy). He is survived by his longtime wife, Christine; son, Matthew; son, Andrew, daughter-in-law, Emily, and grandson, Avery; and son, Philip, granddaughter, Claire, and grandson, John.

Born on November 27, 1944, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to the late John H. Conrad and Catherine Beyer Conrad, Dick's early life along the shores of Lake Michigan was filled with the love of his parents and siblings: Judy, Mary (deceased), Karen, Robert, Cindy, and Jack.

Gifted with a brilliant mind and instilled with a strong work ethic, Dick graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering in 1967. This education paved the way for a sterling career in the aerospace industry, as Dick spent more than 43 years at Westinghouse and Northrop Grumman. As an electrical engineer, quality assurance manager, and director of product integrity, Dick's expertise was vital in advancing aerospace electronics systems for U.S. government contracts.

Dick's enduring marriage of nearly 50 years to his beloved wife, Christine, was built on mutual respect, devotion, and an ability to laugh at the little moments that make life colorful. Together, they raised three sons—Matthew, Andrew, and Philip—teaching them the values of love, kindness, and joy. Dick was a pillar of strength and comfort for his family, and his spirit lives on through his children and his grandchildren.

As a devout Catholic, Dick's faith and spirituality were central to his life. His love for God was evident in the way he treated others with compassion and grace.

Dick loved being outdoors, whether on a bike ride, a walk with Christine, or a boisterous family dinner on the screened-in porch. In retirement, Dick and Chris enjoyed traveling to Canada, Ireland, Scotland, and Switzerland among other destinations. He was also enthusiastic about aviation and automobiles, as his analytical mind was capable of appreciating these beautiful machines on a deep level. This love of technology was also exhibited by his service as a longtime volunteer at the National Electronics Museum. An avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and Marquette University basketball team, Dick enjoyed discussing his favorite teams with his sons on a near-daily basis. True relaxation for Dick meant sitting down with a good book, classical music on the stereo, a crossword puzzle, and a cup of black coffee.

Dick's ability to connect with others, even perfect strangers, was a testament to his warmth and openness. His playful yet steadfast spirit made him unforgettable to everyone who met him, and this spirit will live on in all those who were fortunate enough to have him touch their lives.

The family will receive visitors on Thursday from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at HARRY H. WITZKE'S FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043. A Memorial Mass will be said at St. John the Evangelist at Wilde Lake Interfaith Center on Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. The inurnment will follow Mass at St. John's Cemetery in Ellicott City, MD. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick's memory to Catholic Relief Services at https://www.crs.org/donate/crs-give-where-needed.