Richard Wolyniec

Richard Joseph Wolyniec was born in Detroit, Michigan, on January 11, 1959, to Joseph and Rosaline Wolyniec. Richard passed away peacefully at his home in Shelby Township, Michigan, on August 31, 2026, at the age of 67. Richard was the beloved husband of Jan, with whom he shared 40 wonderful years of marriage. He was the loving father of Adam (Kayla) Wolyniec and Andrew (fiancée Rebecca Clark) Wolyniec, and the very proud grandpa of Ryan Wolyniec and baby Kanan, who is due to arrive any day. He was the dearest brother of Sue (Bob) Hebert, Randy (Aleise and the late Lisa) Wolyniec, and the late Rob Wolyniec, and a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Rick earned his bachelor’s degree from Lawrence Technological University while beginning a career as an engineer with General Motors. A car guy through and through, his career was a natural fit for someone who had a lifelong interest in automobiles. Those who knew Rick knew that he had a quick wit, a healthy dose of sarcasm, and could be, by his own admission, a bit of a smartass. When someone innocently asked how his day was going, his stock response became familiar to family and friends: “Shitty, thanks for asking.” It was pure Rick, delivered with the dry sense of humor that those closest to him knew so well. Rick enjoyed working with his hands and was always willing to tackle a construction or improvement project around the house. He loved taking long walks, spending time on his computer, and closely following the stock market. He knew what he believed and was never particularly shy about sharing his political opinions, or changing them simply to make someone else happy. As much as Rick enjoyed his own interests, some of his best moments came from being involved in the lives of his family. When his sons were young, he could be found at soccer games, supporting his children's teams from the sidelines. Later, he even earned his SCUBA certification so he could share the experience of diving with his sons. Travel was another important part of Rick’s life. Whether traveling for work or heading somewhere on vacation, he enjoyed the opportunity to see new places and have new experiences. And for all the places he traveled and things he enjoyed, there were also simple pleasures that never needed improving, including his mother-in-law’s apple pie. Rick also had a special place in his heart for his dogs. Over the years, Chevy, Kelsee and Bandit were much-loved members of the Wolyniec family and faithful companions to Rick. Each left behind plenty of good memories, and all three preceded him in death. Above all, Rick loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle whose humor, strong opinions, familiar one-liners and unmistakable personality will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. Visitation will take place Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Wasik Funeral Home, Inc., 49150 Schoenherr Road (north of 22 Mile Road), Shelby Township. Funeral Service Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home

Richard Wolyniec

January 11, 1959 - August 31, 2026