Pastor Richard Whitten "Dick" Pawlak Sr.

1944 - 2023

Pastor Richard "Dick" Whitten Pawlak Sr., age 78, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

Richard was born on May 13, 1944, to Frank and Opal (Rice) Pawlak, who preceded him in death.

He married the love of his life, Donna L. (Shuffield), on April 9, 1966, in Michigan City. Donna still survives him.

Dick is also survived by his children, Richard W. Jr. (Nancy) Pawlak of Michigan City and Nicole L. (Michael) Orzech of Trail Creek; grandchildren, Mitchell A. (Eden) Orzech, Nicklaus M. (Kristen) Orzech, Kristin A. Pawlak, Andrew T. Orzech, Erik A. Pawlak and Elijah A. Pawlak; great-grandchildren, Adelynn E. Orzech and baby Tance on the way; brothers, Frank (LeighAnn) Pawlak, John (Marge) Pawlak, Fred Pawlak and Sam Pawlak; sister, Valery Dierdorf; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Richard was also preceded in death by his sisters-in law, Margie and Pat Pawlak.

Richard worked in grocery his whole life. He then retired and worked part time for Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home. He was ordained into the ministry in 2001. Pastor was a lifetime member of Faith City Assembly of God, he had been a Sunday school teacher, church board member, associate pastor, the chaplain for the police and fire departments, and was involved in prison ministries at Westville and Indiana State prisons. He also was involved in the prison ministry at the Lighthouse of Hope in Gary. Dick used to be an avid runner and even ran in the Chicago Marathon.

Mr. Pawlak was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. He loved to fish and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and playing with his dog, Zoey. He was the "McDonald's Pastor," and you could find him there early in the morning passing out Bibles and ministering to people. Many thanks to those who helped him purchase those Bibles.

Friends and family are invited to meet with the family on Monday, May 15, 2023, from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. at Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home, 613 Washington Street, Michigan City, Indiana, 46360, with Pastor Geoff Seifert officiating of Faith City.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith City Assembly of God, 1314 S. Woodland Ave, Michigan City, IN, 46360.

To sign a guestbook or leave condolences, please visit: www.Carlislefh.com. 219-874-4214.