Obituary of RICHARD FRANK PIOTROWSKI

RICHARD FRANK PIOTROWSKI

November 30, 1946 – February 7, 2023

Richard Frank Piotrowski passed away with family by his side on February 7, 2023 at Grace Hospital, at the age of 76 years. He was predeceased by his mother, Genowefa, and father, Franciszek. Richard is survived by his wife, Wanda, children, Andrea (David), Mark (Christine), Steven (Kim), grandchildren, Landen, Adelaide, Luke, and Katie, sister, Christine, and extended family.

Richard was born in Coburg, Germany and lived in Hornu, Belgium before immigrating to Canada in 1953. Growing up in the North End, he was an avid tennis player and played the accordion from a young age, often appearing on television variety shows and was a member of the Ted Komar accordian school band. As a semi-professional musician, he was a band member of the Marquees, who would often play at socials and weddings. He also thoroughly enjoyed playing for the School and the Polish Dance Ensemble S.P.K. Iskry, especially on their travels where he was indoctrinated as ‘one of the boys.’

Having received his civil engineering degree from the University of Manitoba, Richard worked closely with the Inuit and Indigenous Peoples living in Northern Manitoba and in the Northwest Territories. He valued and respected these relationships and spoke about cultural traditions, the beauty of the Northern Lights, and close encounters with polar bears.

Richard was devoted to his family and to his faith. He was married for over 50 years to his wife, Wanda, whom he lovingly referred to as “Wandz,” (Wandzia in Polish). They maintain that the success of their marriage was based on mutual respect, selfless dedication to each other, and prayer. Tato (father in Polish) was available to listen and provide comfort, understanding, and sage advice. He always looked forward to the “Piotrowski Boys’ Weekend” with his sons and grandsons for a weekend of fishing, great food and much laughter. He also kept a close and supportive relationship with his sister.

Richard was dedicated to his Catholic faith, which began as an alter server at St. John Cantius Church. He was a long-time parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Church, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and served in the Liturgy Ministry, Eucharistic Ministry, and Finance Committee. At home, Richard would often be seen reading the newspaper or The Economist and watching his favorite television programs with his arm around Wandz. Despite difficulties with his health, he was a pillar of strength and resilience and had a gift of adapting to new challenges without complaint. After losing his hearing later in life, he was blessed with receiving a cochlear implant and subsequently became a spokesperson for the procedure. His positive outlook on life, sense of humour, and gratitude were remarkable.

The family expresses their deepest appreciation to the medical and unit staff at Grace Hospital and Seven Oaks Hospital for their kindness and compassion. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Salem, Daniela Stangherlin, and all his medical specialists who provided excellent care throughout the years.

Funeral Services will be held on February 14, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (recitation of the rosary) with mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 250 Burrin Avenue. Concelebrating the mass are Father Dominic Yuen, Father Sam Argenziano, and Monseigneur Stan Jaworski. Interment will follow at Holy Ghost Cemetery at 4387 Main St., West Saint Paul, Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s name may be made to Central Speech & Hearing, Unit 2 – 1325 Markham Road, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 4J6.

Wieczny odpoczynyk racz mu dac Panie.