Richard Ciesynski

Richard J. Ciesynski

February 15th, 1934

August 8th, 2015

Richard's journey in life came to an end on Saturday, August 8, 2015 with family and close friends by his side. He was born to Mary and James Ciesynski in Lidgerwood, North Dakota on February 15, 1934. After spending several years in North Dakota, Richard's family moved to Chicago, Illinois. It is here that he enlisted in the Army serving from May, 1955 to June, 1958 where he spent part of his time in Germany. After returning to Chicago, Rich joined Ironworkers Local #1 as an apprentice in 1960. He transferred his membership to Local #118 in Sacramento in 1961 residing in Sparks, Nevada. He completed his apprenticeship and was awarded his Journeyman Certificate from the Nevada State Apprenticeship Council in 1963. During the next several years Rich worked as a journeyman, foreman and general foreman on Nevada and California construction projects. He spent two years in Da Nang and Udorn, Thailand in logistic services.

Upon returning to Sparks in 1969, Rich was appointed as the Reno Business Representative for Local Union 118 in 1969. He was subsequently re-elected to this position over many election cycles until his retirement in 1995. He also served as a member representing labor to the State of Nevada Apprenticeship Council and was appointed as Laborers Representative on OSHA having been appointed to this position by Governors List, Bryan and Miller. He served in leadership roles for the Northern Nevada Building Trades Council and was elected as a delegate to five International Conventions in 1972, 1976, 1981, 1986 and 1991. Rich also actively participated in Nevada politics throughout his career and was very passionate in working with elected officials to make a difference. Rich gave his heart and soul to the Ironworkers during his over 35 years in the building trades. He worked tirelessly to secure work and support the workers who came to admire his dedication and determination to support the working men and women in our community. All the high rises, highway bridges and other major structures in Northern Nevada involved Ironworkers. But Rich also worked with other building trades to support their efforts as well. Rich greatly enjoyed cooking for and fishing and playing cards with family and friends. He also enjoyed target shooting with friends when he could get to the range. Rich also had a great love for his dogs and wildlife, especially wolves. He took great pride in the Native American culture, studying war history and watching boxing having participated during his army days. During his retirement, Rich enjoyed his grandchildren's birthdays and making sure they knew Santa and the Easter Bunny. Rich was married to his devoted wife Dorothy for over 52 years until she passed away in September 2012. They had three children, son Tom Ciesynski (wife Kim, children Max and Teagan), son Tim Ciesynski (wife Stacie, child Aubrie) and daughter Theresa Cervantes (husband Frank, children Cassie and Brooke). He is also survived by daughter Sharon Maffei (husband Wayne, children Michael, Bryan and Mandy as well as 3 great-grandchildren) and son Mike Ciesynski (wife Jeannie, children Michaela and Jake and one great-grandchild) from a previous marriage. Rich was also preceded in death by his mother and father Mary and James, his brother Patrick Ciesynski and sisters Mary Anne Bohnenstingl and Virginia Spencer. You are invited to attend a celebration of Rich's life to be held on Friday, August 21, 2015 at 1pm at Mountain View Mortuary, 425 Stoker Avenue Reno, NV 89513 with a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice.

Rich the legendary warrior has completed his mission on earth with us but remains in our hearts as we know he continues to watch over us.