Richard James Wanczyk

FLORENCE-Richard J. Wanczyk, 83, of Bridge Road passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Cooley Dickinson Hospital surrounded by his family. Richard was born in Northampton, a son of the late Joseph & Mary (Maslanka) Wanczyk. He was raised in Hatfield, attended local schools and graduated from Smith Academy. In his younger years, he worked on the family farm helping to support the family. He began a long career as a carpenter and was known for his cabinet and table making. He worked for the University of Massachusetts at Amherst as a carpenter and construction worker for many years. He often did odd jobs for family and friends and was known for being meticulous with his work. He met Judith LaFreniere, and they were married on January 7, 1961, celebrating 63 years of love, memories and family together. Richard enjoyed Polka music, Polish food and celebrating his heritage. He was a member of the Roman Catholic Church and parishioner of the former St. John Cantius Church in Northampton. He leaves his loving wife, Judith M. Wanczyk of Florence. His children; Susan Liebenow and her husband David of West Hatfield and Robert J. Wayne and his wife Brenda of Summerfield, FL. His brother; Joseph Wayne and his wife, Linda of Leeds and sister-in-law, Darlene Kellogg of Northampton. He also leaves his grandchildren; Michael Liebenow, Jennifer Charette, Zachary Liebenow, William Wanczyk Jr., Marlee Wanczyk, Kristina Dukes, Robby Wanczyk, Jospeh Wanczyk, Westin Wayne, many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews and extended member of the Wanczyk family. In addition to his parents, he was sadly predeceased by a son, William E. Wanczyk and his siblings; Dorothy Mitchell, Walter Wanczyk and Charles Wanczyk. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the AHEARN FUNERAL HOME, 783 Bridge Rd., Northampton from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. with a Catholic Prayer service at the Funeral Home at 11:00 A.M. Interment of his ashes will be private. Donations in Richard’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105