Richard Joseph Gajewski

Richard J. Gajewski, 85, Wausau, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, February 23, 2024.

He was born July 4, 1938 in Wausau, son of the late Sylvester and Helen (Murawski) Gajewski.  On August 29, 1958, he was united in marriage to Betty Schuster at Holy Name Catholic Church, Wausau.  She survives.

For 41 years, Richard worked for Kraft Foods in Wausau, until his retirement.  Following his retirement, he enjoyed having breakfast on Saturday mornings with his fellow retirees.

Among his favorite pastimes, he liked to go deer hunting, fishing,  especially for bullhead’s at night, snowmobiling, gardening and canning vegetables.   He loved polka music and dancing to polkas with his wife, Bette.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include, two children, Mark (Lynn) Gajewski, Wausau and Cynthia (Brian) Charais-Greely, Appleton; three grandchildren, Ryan (Kimberly) Gajewski, Nick (Chantel) Charais and Nathan (Amanda) Charias; five great-grandchildren, Liam, Aiden, Alexis, Cameron and Madelyn; four siblings, Ronald (Mary Lou) Gajewski, Nancy (Gary) France, Susan Dexter and Robert Gajewski; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Michael and Kenneth Gajewski.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 29, 2024 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Wausau.  Rev. Allan Slowiak will preside.  Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Wausau.  Visitation will be on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.

Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com