Richard Thomas Czarnopys

Richard T. Czarnopys, age 82 of Grand Rapids, went to be with the Lord on Thursday March 27, 2025. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia (nee Pienta), and his parents Edward and Harriet. He will be deeply missed by his children Cheryl Czarnopys-Moore (David Moore), Rick (Dena) Czarnopys and Russ Czarnopys; his grandchildren Darren (Nicolette) LaMore, Kyle and Emily Czarnopys, Austin and Maisen Czarnopys; his great grandchildren Hadley and Braxtyn Czarnopys; his siblings Joanne (Steven) Simoneaux, Edward (Helene) Czarnopys, Judy (Steve) Mick, and Jeanne (Rich Tyler) Czarnopys; many nieces and nephews. Richard graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s degree. After, he started his career with Amoco Oil Company as a territory rep for 35 plus years, working the first few years as a successful Tires, Batteries, and Accessories salesman for the company. He was determined and driven outside of his career to be the owner of three multi-family rental home properties on the west side and NE side of GR. It’s with these rental properties that he taught his children the value of a dollar and hard work by helping with the maintenance of the properties. He enjoyed the 50s and 60s, especially the music and muscle cars, owning a 1960 convertible Corvette. He often talked about those glory days – “No one could beat him drag racing.” Richard was a people person and loved good conversation about sports and politics. He was a big Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Lions and Tigers fan. There were many hot summer nights spent lying on the family room floor listening to the great Ernie Harwell play-by-play. He enjoyed hosting many large family summer parties at the Silver Lake cottage in Rockford. He could be a stubborn man, but overall he will be remembered as a passionate, caring family man. The last several years of his life were very challenging due to health issues but he never wavered. He was a strong fighter and stayed positive through it all! The Memorial Mass will be celebrated Tuesday April 1 at 11:00 AM at Holy Spirit Church, where his family will greet friends one hour before the Mass. The Rosary will be prayed Tuesday at 9:30 AM at the church. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to West Michigan Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

Tributes

Richard Thomas Czarnopys

July 17, 1942 - March 27, 2025