Richard J. Muraski, Sr.

Richard J. Muraski Sr., "Deacon Dick", age 83, passed on to new life on Wednesday, June 8, 2016, at home surrounded by his family after a courageous nine-year battle with Alzheimer's. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lucy (Pennig) Muraski, and three brothers, Walter, Thomas and Jack. He is survived by his wife, Beatrice, and eight children: Martha Silva; Joseph (Kathleen) Muraski; Peter (Sarah) Muraski; Francis (Dorma Sue) Muraski ; Phillip Muraski; Gregory (Jane) Muraski; R.J. (Nina) Muraski Jr.; Patrick (Pam Taylor) Muraski, 30 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, one sister, Margaret Schlickman, and many nieces and nephews. Dick was born in Rockford, Ill., on Sept. 25, 1932, the youngest of five. He graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1950 and attended Notre Dame University for a year on a football scholarship. Dick next attended St. Norbert's College in DePere, Wis., where he started on the offensive line for the undefeated 1952 team. During his senior year, because of a clerical error, he was mistakenly drafted into the U.S. Army. It became a blessing when he met the love of his life and future wife, Beattie Owens, at Fort Knox, Ky. They married on June 9, 1956. While starting a family in Rockford, Ill., Dick did accounting for his brother Walt's electrical company. After six years he felt a calling to serve the Church and moved the family to San Francisco to attend The School of Applied Theology. After finishing his studies he moved the family to Kansas City on Father's Day 1964, invited by Msgrs. Arthur Tighe and Richard Shumacher to begin a new program for the Church called The Information Series. In 1973 Dick was one of seven men ordained into the first Deaconate program. Bishop Charles Helmsing assigned him to direct Family Life for the Diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph. After 10 years he left Family Life to work in several parishes, retiring at Our Lady of Lourdes in 1999. Dick enjoyed fishing and hunting with his boys and friends. He became an infamous winemaker. His "fruits of the vine and trees" were shared with friends and neighbors on holidays and special occasions. Dick will be remembered for his ceaseless generosity of time and talents. He led by example and prayed his children would follow. In an article several years ago in The Catholic Key, Dick said, "Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God. I have joy." Dick freely shared his joy and befriended anyone he met. During his time on this earth he met many, many people. He truly was a man for others. Dick, Dad, Papaw will be deeply missed, but we know he will always be with us. OH, HAPPY DAY! NOSTROVIA! The wake will begin at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, with a short prayer service and reflections. Visitation will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, Kansas City, Mo. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 15, at the church. Family suggests contributions to Birthright of Greater Kansas City, 6309 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64113 or Mercedarian Sisters, 2116 Maturana Drive, Liberty, MO 64068 or Sisters of St. Francis, 2100 N. Noland Road, Independence, MO 64050.
CLICK HERE FOR A RECORDING OF MR. MURASKI'S SERVICE



SERVICES Prayer Service
Tuesday, June 14, 2016 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Visitation Church 5141 Main Street Kansas City, Missouri 64113
Visitation
Tuesday, June 14, 2016 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Visitation Church 5141 Main Street Kansas City, Missouri 64113
Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday, June 15, 2016 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Visitation Church 5141 Main Street Kansas City, Missouri 64113