Richard Walter Janiak

Richard passed away at home on March 14, 2024 after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Richard was born in Newark, NJ on January 9, 1950 and grew up in Irvington, NJ where as a boy his home was the center of neighborhood activity for many years. In 1968 Richard married Cathy, the love of his life and became the proud dad to two children, Jacqueline and Jeffrey. Richard’s granddaughter Rebecca was a shining star in his life, he was immensely proud of her and loved her dearly.

After graduating high school and The Newark School of Business, Richard was employed by the State of NJ and worked his way up to Supervising Compliance Inspector in the Air Compliance and Enforcement Program, completing 38 years of service for our state. He was honored with the Annual Governor's Award for Outstanding Achievement in Pollution Prevention. Richard worked tirelessly to reduce the overall impact of the dry cleaning industry in NJ and was instrumental in developing rules that set a precedent for future laws.

Richard was a warm hearted guy, always ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends, quick with a joke and wonderful to be around. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed landscaping and gardening with Cathy, together they took much pleasure and pride in maintaining their property.

Richard loved the summer and sunshine and spent many days on the beach, boating, fishing and swimming in his backyard pool. He was happiest when surrounded by his family and he was loved and adored by all. He was a fun loving, happy go lucky guy with a knack for keeping the party alive no matter what the time. He will be forever remembered for his playful humor and loving heart.

Richard was predeceased by his parents Walter and Genevieve (nee Peger).

He is survived by his wife Cathy (nee Cuva); his children Jaqueline (Robert) Brown of Asheville, NC; Jeffrey of Leek, England; granddaughter Rebecca of Asheville, NC; brother Robert (Lynn); sister Joanne (Giovanni), and many loving nieces and nephews. We miss you and love you always.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the Anderson Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River, NJ on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024 from the hours of 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Memorial donations may be made to American Lung Association.