Richard Joseph Krajenta

Rick passed away peacefully, yet unexpectedly on May 12, 2025. Rick was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 6, 1954. Son of the late Casimir and Rose (Joseph) Krajenta, he grew up in a loving family with his parents, two brothers and four sisters in Warren, Michigan. He was a graduate of Cousino High School class of 1972. He continued his education and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from Wayne State University and then earned his Master's in Epidemiology. As a Laboratory Scientist, he spent his career working at Henry Ford where he was well respected by his colleagues and had many publications. Rick was semi-retired, still working as a consultant.

Rick leaves behind a legacy rooted in kindness, humor and a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life. As a master gardener, he found peace and purpose in the natural world. He cultivated not only plants, but also lasting friendships and a warm, welcoming home.

He had a lifelong love for skiing, especially Boyne Mountain. His love began in junior high and continued throughout his life. Known also as “Bot” to his family after a nickname that was given as a teen stuck, he enjoyed family ski trips with his siblings and nieces and nephews each year. Often, when his nieces and nephews were learning to ski, he would encourage them by telling them to “walk like a monster” in their ski boots. His nieces and nephews rarely saw their Uncle Bot without a smile on his face or a chuckle as he would often pretend to be able to turn “on” and “off” the kids ability to tickle him. Rick enjoyed many winter days carving through snow and taking in the crisp air of Michigan's north country. Up north held a special place in Rick’s heart - a space for quiet reflection, outdoor adventure and time well spent with those he loved.

Rick’s zest for life extended to the arts and the table - he was a devoted theatergoer and a passionate foodie, always eager to try something new or return to a favorite dish. He loved his heritage and the many family traditions passed down by his mother and father. His contribution of strawberry pretzel jello was always anticipated at family gatherings. His sense of humor, low-key nature and generous spirit made him a person people naturally gravitated toward. Rick’s legacy of kindness, laughter and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rick (aka Bot/Uncle Bot) is survived by his siblings, Patricia (Ronald) Urbin, Deborah (Gary) Pringle, Cheryl (Mark) Pniewski, Kenneth Krajenta, Karen (Gus) Arapostathis; 5 nephews, Michael Marcial, Jason (Lauren) Krajenta, James (Laura) Krajenta, Ryan (Jessica) Pringle, Jimmy Arapostathis; 9 nieces, Sherri (Samuel) Nassar, Christina (Roberto) Marcial, Maria Marcial, Sarah (Kristoffer) Sugg, Michele (Eric) Gorski, Angela Pniewski, Rose (Matthew) Sabatini, Nicole Arapostathis and Kathryn (Calvin) Stewart; many great nephews and nieces along with several other loving family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Casimir and Rose (Joseph) Krajenta and his brother Casimir (aka Cass) Krajenta.

Memorial donations in Rick's name are appreciated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 2000 Town Center Suite 1730, Southfield, MI 48075.

Arrangements entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren.

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