Richard Leo Walczak

Richard Leo Walczak Sr., affectionately known as "Big Rick" to family and friends, passed away surrounded by his family on September 7, 2026. Born on September 28, 1949, in Chicago, Rick lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, generosity, humor, and ingenuity.

Rick grew up in the Brighton Park neighborhood of Chicago, surrounded by a large, loving family that included his mother Anne, his father Walter, his brothers Edward and George, his sister Joy, and many cousins. Following his father's untimely passing when Rick was just 15 years old, he stepped up to assume the role of provider for his family.

When he was 21, Rick met the love of his life, Mary Lou. Together, they built a beautiful life founded on love, loyalty, and family. Rick and Mary Lou moved to California, where they purchased their home in 1974. Over the decades, that house became far more than just a residence; it became the true heart of the Walczak family and their never-ending DIY project.

The Walczak residence was always a place where holidays were celebrated, milestones were marked, and generations gathered around a table that always seemed to have room for one more. Cooking was one of Rick's greatest joys. He famously made far more food than was ever necessary, finding his true happiness in bringing people together around a good meal.

Rick always ensured his family was well cared for and brought a fierce work ethic to every job he held. Whether he was working as a short-order cook, a car salesman, or ultimately spending 32 years at UPS, where he retired as a feeder driver supervisor, he gave it his all. Throughout his career, he was known not only for his commitment to the job but also for his legendary workplace barbecues and his trademark sarcastic wit.

Rick delighted in showing his family and friends a good time, from local Disneyland trips to exploring Italy or to treasured trips back to Chicago to reconnect with lifelong friends and family. These trips created memories meant to last a lifetime.

More than anything, Rick loved people. He enjoyed relaxing with a good television show, sharing stories, making others laugh with his sharp sense of humor, and spending quality time with those he cared about most. He found a way to turn every birthday, promotion, anniversary, or minor holiday into an excuse for a large family dinner.

He absolutely loved Christmas. It combined his favorite things, good food, decorating the tree, buying presents and most importantly having his family and friends together.

Rick is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary Lou; his son, Ric Walczak Jr. and his wife Mary; his daughter, Mandy and her husband Buc; and his cherished grandchildren, Ricky III, Oliver, (Jessica), Andrew (Juliana) and Evie. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose greatest pride was the beautiful family he built with Mary Lou at his side.

Rick's legacy lives on in the countless meals shared around the table in the home that he loved and in the stories that will be retold at family gatherings for generations to come. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will take place at St. Louise de Marillac Church in Covina, CA, on September 28 at 11:00 a.m. A gathering at the Walczak residence will follow.