Richard Michael Nowak

Richard Michael Nowak, age 65, died on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was born September 10, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan, son of the late Richard Nowak and the late Sophie (nee: Rabchen) Nowak. After graduation from Hamtramck High School, Richard learned that being a man of disciplined work ethics that his career path would ultimately lead him down the "hands on" road where his dedicated service at Macomb Community College found him attaining a multi-faceted position which entailed that of Warehouse/ Mail Room/ Delivery Man,…as well as that of Mr. Fix it. The best part of his position is that everyone knew and loved him,...he was their Knight in Shining Armor for over 30 years.Richard was somewhat compelled towards retirement due to his illness. Although he wasn't ready to retire, he was able to pick up another part-time job that he was able to do and do it well. His new job title was "Dzia Dzia" (Grandfather),...and with this job came more benefits than he could have imagined. The hugs, kisses, smiles and giggles were worth every minute of it. His little Camille was the "Apple of his Eye".A devoted man of faith, Richard was a member of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Hamtramck. Some may remember him as a loyal member of the Usher's Club,…others many simply reflect on the warmth they recall in him as one of the members at the church. Not only was Richard baptized at the church, but in 1994 he married the love of his life, Barbara in the same church he grew up in. The couple lived in Eastpointe for many years before deciding to make the "big move" to Ypsilanti, Michigan 3 years ago. This was so they could be closer to their granddaughter and "spoil" her even more…something that grandparents are supposed to do, right? So Barbara and her "Eagle-Eye" (one of Barbara's cute nicknames for her hubby) relocated to be able to spend time with her and their daughter's family.When he wasn't working, Richard had his pleasurable escapes. He loved to bowl, and had a passion for watching his favorite sports teams on TV. But his favorite escape was visiting the casinos and playing cards. Richard was a loving, caring, sweet man and everyone enjoyed his company.Richards family and friends meant the world to him, and the love he leaves behind is a testimony to a man of compassion who truly made a difference in so many lives.He was the beloved husband of Barbara. Caring Step-father of Margaret (Jon) Svoboda and Gyorgy Nagy Jr. Loving and devoted grandfather of Camille Svoboda. Brother of Lorraine (Frank) Kuron. Also survived by 2 nieces and 2 nephews, and his cat "Shkode".Richard will lie in state Wednesday, January 28th at Our Lady Queen of Apostle's Catholic Church in Hamtramck from 10:00am until the time of his Funeral Mass at 11:00am.Arrangements were entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road). Please share memories of Richard at his memory book above.