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WALTER PIETRZAK Obituary

PIETRZAK, Walter T. Age 83, of West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, also affectionately known as Wladzu, passed away surrounded by the love of his family, on Monday, October 20, 2025. Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, to Stanley and Jane (Zinkiewicz) Pietrzak, he embodied the values of his Midwestern roots: humility, hard work and kindness toward others. Predeceased by his first wife, Grace (Donahue) Pietrzak, with whom he raised four children: Donna, Wally, Nancy, and Amy. He later found companionship with Virginia (DeNisi) Pietrzak and together, they shared many happy years. Cherished grandfather of Tessa, Alexandra, Michael, Marc, Grace, Alexa, Scott, Rose and Wally, Jr.; and great-grandfather of Lillian and James. Dear brother of Peter Pietrzak, Elizabeth Sherman, Mary Loscko and the late Paul and Stanley Pietzak, Jr. He is survived by a large and loving family of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom he took great pride in and cherished spending time with. He delighted in their accomplishments and held each one close in his heart. It was Walter's service in the Army that first brought him to Massachusetts and while stationed at Fort Devens, he would meet Grace Donahue at a dance, beginning their romance. Walter dedicated much of his professional life to Polaroid, where he worked for many years. First assigned to New Bedford, then settling in Medford to raise their family. His career reflected a deep commitment to craftsmanship, loyalty, and pride in being part of a company that helped define an era of photography and technology. He valued the friendships he made and the sense of purpose his work provided. In retirement, Walter found joy in simple pleasures and staying active: gardening, tinkering with home improvement projects, and spending time with family. He also enjoyed traveling and time spent between New Hampshire and warmer temperatures in North Carolina. He will be remembered for his quiet kindness, steady presence, and the care he showed to everyone around him. A private Burial took place at Forest Hill Cemetery, Derry, New Hampshire. www.dohertyfuneralservice.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Boston Globe from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for WALTER PIETRZAK

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Jimmy Considine, Charlestown

October 31, 2025

Sincere thanks for the devoted military service you gave to the people of this nation. May you rest in peace.

Wendy Kistner

October 24, 2025

Trax was a wonderful friend, father, and husband. He always made me feel welcomed and treasured as a friend. I will miss you dearly.

Michelle O'Neill

October 24, 2025

Our hearts go out to Donna, Wally, Nancy, Amy, and all of Trax’s grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and family. We feel so grateful to have known him and to have experienced his warmth, humor, generosity, and quiet, steadfast love. It was a true gift to witness the pride and care he carried for his family and the devotion he showed to my mother. We will always cherish the moments we were fortunate to share with him.

With love and deepest sympathies,
Terry & Michelle O'Neill

Beth Michajlov

October 23, 2025

Uncle Trax was one of a kind! May he rest in the sweetest peace. Such a kind and gentle man. My condolences to all. Xox

Dianne Fitzgerald

October 23, 2025

One of the good guys! He will be missed for sure. Love to all.

Michael Cutillo

October 23, 2025

Oh my goodness, Uncle Trax. Your love and kindness was abounding. So even keeled. A joy to be around.So many memories. Wednesday night dinners at Greenleaf Avenue, The mobilly home. Donna's graduation in it, the trip to North Adams in it. Dinner parties at Aunt Dianne's and Uncle Wally's. As Aunt Grace would say, "God don't make no junk." You were a treasure to have in the family. Don't be making any "boners" up their in heaven.

Don and Brenda Sherman

October 22, 2025

Love you uncle had fun with you many times ... Love You

Kerry Donahue-Barre

October 22, 2025

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

MARTY ZINKIEWICZ

October 22, 2025

Rest in Peace, cousin.

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Memorial Events
for WALTER PIETRZAK

Oct

26

Calling hours

3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

George L. Doherty Funeral Home

855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.), Somerville, MA 02144

Oct

27

Service

9:00 a.m.

George L. Doherty Funeral Home

855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.), Somerville, MA 02144

Oct

27

Funeral Mass

10:00 a.m.

St. Catherine of Genoa Church

185 Summer Street, Somerville, MA

Funeral services provided by:

George L Doherty Funeral Service, Inc - Somerville

855 Broadway Powder House Square, Somerville, MA 02144

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