Richard C. Opielawski

Richard, was a familiar and respected man wherever he went. He was the kind of man everyone seemed to know, whether it was at the bowling alley, the golf course, or just waving as he cruised by in one of his freshly waxed cars.

If you asked him what he was most proud of, he would have said it was being a father. He loved seeing his children happy, especially creating memories on family vacations from Aruba to Cancun, countless trips to Florida, and weekend getaways to Hampton Beach.

He attended every father and daughter dance filled with endless laughs and smiles, while he took pride in getting all dressed up so he could ask “Don’t I look sharp?”.

Richard also took great pleasure in the role “Papa” to his grandchildren as his eyes always lit up with love. He enjoyed going golfing with his grandson Joseph and never missed an opportunity to pass down knowledgeable information to his grandson Jordan. He got an absolute kick out of his granddaughter Brilana and never stopped smiling while in her presence. He also loved to spend time and talk walks with the late family dog, Nika Marie.

Richard will be missed by his four children, Melissa and her husband Jorge, Michelle, Michaela, and Ricky, as well as their mother Jill Link. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Jordan, Joseph, Brilana, Luciano, Valenciana, and KJ.

Richard also leaves behind sisters Janet and Nancy and her husband Pat, several in-laws, many nieces and nephews, as well as lifelong friends.

Overall, Rich will be remembered as having an infectious laugh, bowling a perfect game, and wanting nothing but the best for his family.

Visitation will be held on December 11, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a memorial service honoring Richard’s life at 6:30 PM in Romano Funeral Home, 627 Union Avenue, Providence, RI.

For those wishing to express their sympathy, flowers may be sent to Romano Funeral Home.