Barry Waclawski

Barry Waclawski, 74, of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away on October 21, 2017. He remains in the hearts of his beloved wife of 46 years, Colleen (Doyle) Waclawski; his children Jody (Lance) Stray; Denis Waclawski; Josh (Jami) Waclawski; Devin (Mary) Waclawski; Jenny Waclawski; and Darren (Jayne) Waclawski; his grandchildren: Cinnamon (Lance) Bice, Kennedy and Carlie Stray; Payton, Ashton and Jackson Waclawski; and Evelyn and Frances Waclawski; his sister Linda (RJ), brother Lorney (Julie), and many more cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. He was reunited with his parents, Nick and Gert Waclawski. Barry was loved and cherished by all those fortunate to know him. He was a sincere and gentle soul, who devoted his entire life to his precious Colleen and treasured children and grandchildren. His family was his true wealth and he was rich beyond measure. He loved family gatherings at the family home for any and all occasions and always welcomed friends with the same warmth and fondness he showed his family. Summers were spent at the family cottage on Lime Lake in northern Michigan, boating, playing Cribbage, Setback and storytelling. He loved photography, and you could often find him behind a camera lens at one of his kids sporting events. He was a man who held his Polish heritage dear, often waving the Polish flag with great pride. A native of Grand Rapids, Barry attended Catholic Central High School and Aquinas College, and later served our nation in the Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1967. He enjoyed a long career at AT&T and retired in 2001. But it is his dedication to family for which he will be remembered most. A loving fearless leader of the Waclawski six-pack, who commanded the utmost respect from his kids and made parenting look easy. His family is blessed to have had such a strong and amazing man for a husband, father and grandfather - one whose joy for life made every encounter meaningful and unforgettable. The Waclawski family will welcome friends at Arsulowicz Brothers Mortuaries, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534, on Wednesday October 25 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 PM during which the Rosary will be prayed at 7:15 PM. The Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Thursday October 26 at 11:00 AM at St. Robert of Newminster Parish, 6477 Ada Dr. SE, Ada, MI 49301, where the family will receive visitors for one hour prior to the Mass. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita’s Catholic Church, PO Box 75, Maple City, MI 49664.

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Barry Waclawski

October 16, 1943 - October 21, 2017