Richard J. Grudzinskas

Richard J. Grudzinskas, of Worcester died Monday, August 11, 2014 at the age of 82, surrounded by his family at Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Worcester. His wife of 57 years, Evelyn R. (Trafecante) Grudzinskas passed away on February 7, 2013. He was born on September 15, 1931, the son of Joseph and Mary (Simansky) Grudzinskas and lived in Worcester all his life. He graduated from Commerce High School, then entered the U.S. Army during the Korean War to serve his country. He later worked as a plant manager for the Hardwick Knitted Fabric, Inc., retiring in 1994. Richard leaves behind to cherish his memories, his beloved daughter, Debra A. Girouard and her husband Jeffrey of Worcester and his two grandsons, Brian J. Girouard and his fiancée Angela Catholdi and Andrew R. Girouard and his wife Cara; a great granddaughter, Evelyn Elizabeth Girouard who was born on August 12, 2014, the day after Richard's passing. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by three brothers, Albert, Joseph and John Grudzinskas as well as two sisters, Ann Sheehan and Helen Stisitis. Throughout his lifetime, Richard enjoyed swimming, playing tennis, traveling, but nothing gave him more pleasure than spending time with his two grandsons and family. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the entire staff of Holy Trinity Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Holy Trinity Hospice for the outstanding care given to Richard and the compassion and support given to the family. Richard's final days were restful and dignified, due to their loving care. Calling hours for Richard will be held Thursday, August 14, 2014 from 4-7p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester. His Funeral will be held on Friday, August 15, 2014 from the funeral home, departing at 10:30 a.m. for a Funeral Mass to be held at 11 a.m. in Christ the King Church, 1052 Pleasant Street, Worcester. Entombment will follow in Saint John's Mausoleum, Worcester. Those who wish to remember Richard by way of a memorial tribute are kindly asked to consider The Alzheimer's Foundation of American, 322 Eighth Avenue, 7th Floor, New York, New York, 10001 or at www.alzfdn.org. To share your thoughts and memories of Richard, please visit his personal guestbook at: www.mercadantefuneral.com