Richard Grabarczyk

Richard Paul Grabarczyk, age 93, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away quietly on February 7, 2025. He was born on October 7, 1931, to Aloysius and Salome (Mazurkiewicz) Grabarczyk in Toledo, Ohio. Richard was a proud 1949 graduate of Macomber Vocational High School.

A dedicated servant to his country, Richard served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his discharge, he worked at Libbey Owens Ford for an impressive 31 years, where he formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of many.

Richard met the love of his life, Alice, at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, and they shared a passion for ballroom dancing that would be a significant part of their life together. Their shared love of dance was just one of many joys Richard found in life. He was also an avid polka dancer, enjoyed woodworking, bowling, fishing, and loved spending time on the various boats he had over the years. In fact, he even raced his sailboat, a hobby that brought him great joy.

Richard was a loving and devoted grandfather; known for his patience and the special bond he shared with his grandchildren. He took great joy in playing badminton with them and building intricate domino structures. A man of quiet nature, Richard was known for his kindness, humility, and the dignity with which he approached life. He was a true gentleman, a devoted husband, and a faithful servant to his church. Richard’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, as he will always be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith.

Those left to cherish his memory include four children: Candace (James) Seving, Michael Streeter, Kellyann (Douglas) Hartnett, and Shereen Streeter; three grandchildren: Andrew Hartnett (Kara Boyer), Amanda (Nathan) Cain, and Jennifer (Ron) Hyde; and three great-grandchildren: Julianna Hyde, Carter, and Owen Cain. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 39 years, Alice, and daughter-in-law Deborah Streeter.

A private graveside service will be held on Wednesday, February 12, followed by a memorial mass later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Richard’s name to Goat Berry Trails, an animal rescue and sanctuary, at goatberrytrails.org.

“So long,” Richard. Your legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength will forever be cherished.