Richard Blazek Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Forest Hills Funeral Homes - Palm City Chapel on Dec. 3, 2024.
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Richard J. Blazek, 79, of Stuart, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024, Trustbridge - Jupiter Pavilion Care Center, located at Jupiter Medical Center in Jupiter, Florida.
Born in Locust Valley, New York, and raised in Kew Gardens, Richard cherished a vibrant childhood on Long Island with his parents. Around 1960, he relocated to Hobe Sound to be closer to his family. There, he married Regina and began raising a family before ultimately settling in Stuart in 1985, where he built a life rich in love, friendship, and creativity.
Richard was a devoted husband and father who loved socializing with friends, often over meals at his favorite restaurants. Whether enjoying breakfast at Maria's in Downtown Stuart or dining at Cooper's Hawk in The Gardens Mall, he treasured these shared moments.
In his free time, Richard found joy in painting and coloring, a passion that flourished after his retirement. He created art nearly every day, often sharing his vibrant pieces on Facebook for all to enjoy. His love of travel was equally profound, enabling him to reconnect with distant friends and forge new bonds. From the canals of Amsterdam to the streets of London, Richard delighted in exploring the world and nurturing friendships that crossed borders.
Richard was deeply nourished by his faith, attending St. Julian of Norwich Old Catholic Parish, where he found fellowship and purpose. He cherished early-bird dinners with church friends at Grandpa's restaurant, savoring good conversation and community.
A strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, Richard found solace and inspiration at The Sanctuary of the Treasure Coast. He passionately supported events that enriched the lives of his LGBTQ+ friends and family, embodying his belief in the dignity and value of every life.
Professionally, Richard worked as Vice President of Retail Services at Stainsafe, Inc., retiring in March 2007. To Richard, colleagues were more than coworkers-they were friends. He maintained close ties with many of them, sharing lunches, holiday parties, and lasting memories. His love for Christmas, his favorite holiday, was infectious; when his spirit was jolly, Santa always made an appearance.
Richard is survived by his loving husband, Wayne Hill, his sister, Kim Owen, of Louisville, Kentucky and his step Daughter Michelle Frechette-Murphy. He leaves behind a large extended family, including many cousins from South Florida to New York.
He was preceded in death by his father, Martin Blazek (1979); his beloved mother, Mary Ellen Blazek (2011); his wife, Regina Blazek (1980); his daughter, Jennifer Blazek (2004); his cherished companion, Chuck Owen (2010); and his dear Godmother, Elenora Dondero (2021).
Services: A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on December 8, 2024, in the Chapel at Forest Hills Memorial Park in Palm City. A service, officiated by Father Bernie Sheffield, will follow at 1:00 PM. Entombment will take place in the Forest Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum immediately after.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Julian of Norwich Old Catholic Parish in Fort Pierce or The Sanctuary of the Treasure Coast in Port Saint Lucie.
To share your condolences and memories of Richard, please visit his online guestbook at: www.foresthillspalmcityflorida.com.