Richard J. Walczak, 85, of Slinger, formerly of West Bend, died Friday, Dec. 3, 2010, at his residence.

He was born March 5, 1925, in Stevens Point to the late Stanley and Adeline (nee Kobishop) Walczak and married Betty Weston on Aug. 23, 1952, in Milwaukee. Betty preceded him in death on Nov. 20, 1987. He then had a special friendship with Jacqueline Sommer until her death on 2009.

Richard graduated from Pacelli High School in Stevens Point before moving to Milwaukee where he became an apprentice at A.O. Smith. He worked as a machinist at A.O. Smith for over 38 years, retiring in 1986.

He was a member of the West Bend Lodge 1398 Loyal Order of the Moose and St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church.

Survivors include his five children, Karen Wald of Slinger, Janet Unke of St. Francis, Michael (Jeannie) of Friendship, Douglas of Hartford and Jon (Lisa) of Campbellsport. He is further survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three siblings, Billy (Ginger), Fred (Marianne) and Madelyn (Roger) Johnson; and nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Adeline; his wife, Betty; a grandson, Lee Walczak; and a granddaughter, Mikaela Walczak.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, Dec. 9, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church. Please meet at church for Mass. Burial will follow in Washington County Memorial Park. Visitation will be Wednesday at the Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend from 3 p.m. until a prayer vigil at 8:15 p.m.

The Schmidt Funeral Home of West Bend is serving the family. Online guestbook and condolences are available at www.schmidtfuneralhome.com.