Richard Andrew Rychalski passed away on October 22nd at the age of 92.
Richard was born on July 15, 1931 in Detroit Michigan, to Raymond and Sophie Rychalski. His parents immigrated to the United States from Poland settling in Hamtramck, Michigan in the late 1920’s. Richard was the second of 3 children, with two sisters the oldest, Mona Sanders (deceased) and the youngest Barbara (Jim) Arnold of Rochester, Michigan. He also has a half-sister, Paula Mochan, of St. Louis Missouri.
After graduating from St. Stanislas High School in Detroit, he joined the Air Force and served as a dental hygienist. During his assignment at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka, Kansas he met his wife of 70 years, June Smith. After attending two years college at Washburn University in Topeka, he became a city policeman. where he was instrumental in obtaining the city’s first police dog. which proved a valuable resource for the city. Being an avid fisherman and hunter, he was lured to Montana where he became a State Farm Insurance Agent in Libby Montana later transferring to the Claims Department as an insurance adjuster and moving to Butte and then Helena where he presently resided. After retiring as an adjuster, he formed his own Mortgage Maintenance Business, checking on houses for out of state mortgage companies.
Richard was a wonderful, loving father and husband as well as a surrogate father to some friends of his sons whose fathers were not available. He was also a very spiritual person, discovering Eckankar a religion of the light and sound, which gave him great comfort. He had a great sense of humor, and his family still uses some of his sayings.
Richard and June had five children: Susan Rychalski McDowell (deceased); Amy Rychalski Mayther, Spokane; Rex (Gail) Rychalski, Medical Lake, WA; Mark Rychalski (deceased); and Jon (Coleene) Rychalski, Arlington, VA. He also leaves numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly.
A Memorial Service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 27, 2023 at the Fort Harrison Chapel on Base at Fort Harrison. A Reception will follow the service at the Service Club on Base at Fort Harrison.
Mike Swingley says
Dick was a second father to me and often there to help me through some very tough childhood times. I respected him thoroughly and still have fond memories of chasing cows, riding horses, fishing on the Smith River and elk hunting at Butte Creek. Dick always had a smile available, a pat on the shoulder and an inquiry as to how I was doing. I can name three male figures in my life who had an impact on me and showed me what it was to be a good father, a hard worker and friend. Dick was one of those three. I often think of Mr Rychalski, his on Jon, my childhood best friend, and the whole Rychalski family that were all so good to me and my brother growing up.
My undying respect,
Mike Swingley
Scott Swingley says
I’m deeply saddened to hear of Dick’s passing. He was a great man who influenced me as a young man. I, too, saw Dick as a father figure. The Richalski family I view as my own . I will help out in any way I can. Rest in peace Dick.
Candace Durand says
June you have my condolences for your absence of Richard. We all know he is feeling better now. He lived a long fulfilling life. How wonderful. My love Candace Durand
Jan Silberling, formerly Swingley says
Dick Rychalski was a super human being! He, his wife, June and their children were more than friends…they were family. Dick had an infectious smile and always a kind word. I could not have raised my sons without them. Nobody could replace any one of them in my heart! I love you all!
Sally Nyland says
June,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Dick. Please accept my condolences and know you are in my thoughts at this difficult time.