Charles Fossieck

Charles Frederick “Rick” Fossieck, age 75, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Christian Northeast Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

Born on August 3, 1950, in Granite City, Rick was the beloved son of the late Frederick and Muriel (Nelson) Fossieck. A proud lifelong resident, Rick devoted his life to education, faith, music, and family.

On August 9, 2008, Rick married the love of his life, Valentyna (Stupen) Shevchuk, at First United Presbyterian Church in Granite City, where he was also a faithful and active member. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with laughter, travel, and cherished memories.

Rick retired from Coolidge Junior High School after many years of dedicated service as a teacher, where he inspired countless students with patience, kindness, and a genuine passion for learning. Outside the classroom, Rick’s love for life shone through in everything he did. In his younger years, he found joy in fishing and playing the drums with the Mossberg Shotgun Band. He was also an enthusiastic sports fan—especially devoted to his beloved St. Louis Cardinals.

Above all, Rick’s greatest joy was his family. He treasured every moment spent with his wife, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family, who will forever remember his big heart, sense of humor, and unwavering love.

Rick is survived by his devoted wife, Valentyna Fossieck of Granite City, IL; loving stepchildren, Nikita (Abigail) Shevchuk of Festus, MO, and Anna (Denis) Kovalev of Unionville, CT; cherished sister, Beverley Scroggins of Glen Carbon, IL; adored grandchildren, Marcus, Murphy, and Genevieve Shevchuk, and Alice Kovalev; nephew, Morgan (Melissa) Scroggins; great-nieces and great-nephews, Andrew Scroggins, Eleonore Scroggins, Zoe Scroggins, Leighann Swanson, Leon Scroggins III and Joseph Scroggins; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Rick was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Leon Scroggins Sr., and his nephew, Leon Scroggins Jr.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at First United Presbyterian Church in Granite City, Illinois. Visitation will take place from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m., with Rev. Darnell Tingle officiating.

Private interment will be held at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois, on Monday, November 17, 2025.

Memorials may be made to First United Presbyterian Church, and donations will be accepted at the church.

Irwin Chapel in Granite City is entrusted with arrangements.

Rick’s life was a beautiful melody of love, laughter, and purpose—his rhythm will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home