Age 77, of Highland, formerly of East Chicago, IN passed away Friday, October 14, 2016. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary Ann; daughter June (John) of Dyer,loving daughter Chris Tina of Highland; 2 granddaughters, Abby and Nicole; inlaws, Vickie, George (Carole), and Edge(Cathy); aunt, Jenny Kocon; numerous nieces, nephews and special niece, Patti. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Deanna; parents, Carl and Stella (nee Misiewich); siblings, Lottie Gratowski,and Frank his brother who was tortured to death in World War 2. Carl (late Irene) Jemenko, and Fran (late Ben) Detloff; inlaws Ted (Helen) Jarmakowicz, Mitchell, Melanie (Mike) Gerdich.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 10:00 AM DIRECTLY at St. James Catholic Church, 9640 Kennedy Ave., Highland, IN, 46322 with Rev. Keith Virus officiating. Richard will lie in state at the church from 9:30 AM until time of service and will be laid to rest after service at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Calumet City, IL. Friends may visit with the family at Solan Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Ave., Schererville, IN 46375 (corner of Main and Kennedy) on Thursday October 27, 2016 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM and on Friday October 28, 2016 from 2:00 PM till 8:00 PM.

Richard graduated from East Chicago Roosevelt, and was known for his many sporting achievements in East Chicago. He was an Army Veteran, member of Ironworkers Local #395, and Knights of Columbus Council #8080. Richard was inducted into the East Chicago Hall of Fame, and was the "Times Athlete of the Year" for all around sports.