Richard "Pap" S Szala

Richard Steven Szala (85) of Springfield, VA. died on October 19, 2021. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His life span was dedicated to that of public service. He was a veteran serving in the US Navy from 1954-1957.

Szala retired from, DC Police Department serving from 1959 to 1980. He went on to service at the Smithsonian Institution National Zoological Park Police and ending his career as a Fairfax County bus driver for 11 years.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents Martin Szala and Anna Punchak Szala of Johnstown, PA. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Lorine Szala, beloved daughter, Kristen Szala Henderson (Greg), son Richard Michael Szala (Shirl) and son Paul Steven Szala (Karen), six grandchildren. Grandson's Aidan Henderson, Camdan Henderson, Bradan Richard Henderson and Dylan Henderson. Granddaughter's Piper Henderson and Scotlyn Szala, brother Robert Szala and sister Dolores Carnahan.

His hobbies included hunting, fishing, as well as on any given day "Pap" could be found on a baseball field supporting his grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to StaffordBaseball.org.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday October 27th 2021 from 4-6pm at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA. 22151