Richard T. Michalowski

Richard Theodore Michalowski (75) passed away at home on September 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was the devoted husband of Janet (Sirianni) Michalowski, loving father of Sarah Michalowski, Valerie Pheanis and her husband Tyler, and Brian Michalowski and his wife Kate. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to McKenna, Benjamin, Jacob, and Charlotte Pheanis, and to Joshua and Jack Michalowski.
Born on September 4, 1950 and raised in Jersey City, NJ, Richard later made Verona his home, where he and Janet spent 38 wonderful years raising their family before moving to Rockaway Township in 2020.
Richard was predeceased by his parents, Helen (Cimaglia) and Richard Michalowski, and his sister, Rosemary Joannidis. He is survived by his brother, Donald Michalowski, and brother-in-law, Chris Joannidis, along with many dear family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
He built a long and successful career in finance and business, holding positions at Arthur Andersen, W.R. Grace, American Express, and Deutsche Bank, and also co-owned A Pleasant Day Nursery School in Caldwell, NJ. After surviving the events of 9/11, he was called to begin a new chapter of meaningful work at Renew International.
Richard gave generously of his time to organizations such as the Verona Music Parents Association, Saint Dominic's Family Services, Renew International, and the Board of Trustees at Greenbriar Fox Ridge Condominiums. He found joy in running during his earlier years (which later became brisk walks) and never missed a single performance, concert, or event for his children-always cheering proudly from the audience. In recent years, his greatest love was spending time with his treasured grandchildren and watching them perform on the stage or the sports field.
Visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm on Thursday September 25 at the Par-Troy Funeral Home (95 Parsippany Road, Parsippany). A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10am on Friday September 26 at St. Cecilia R.C. Church (90 Church Street, Rockaway, NJ) followed by the entombment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Richard's memory to Family Promise of Morris County, Rockaway Food Pantry, or the PG Chambers School Run, Walk, Roll 5K fundraiser.
Richard's warmth, generosity, and steadfast love of his family will be remembered always.