Richard Edward Piotrowski, 77, died Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care after several years of declining health.
Richard was born June 18, 1941, in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Edward J. and Sophie C. (nee Slizewski) Piotrowski. After graduating from Marquette University High School, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Marquette University and master’s degree from Temple University. He was an outstanding educator, working for decades as a special education teacher and supervisor in the Milwaukee Public Schools until emergency cardiac surgery compelled him to retire in 1997. He was beloved by the many colleagues, students, and families he befriended.
A lifelong music and food lover, Richard listened, danced, and tasted his way through Milwaukee’s music and culture festivals, including Polish Fest, Irish Fest, German Fest, and Summerfest. Upon moving to Montpelier, VT, and then to Lebanon, NH, he began making music himself, playing the bass drum with gusto for the Capital City Band and the Upper Valley Community Band. He adored performing in concerts and parades.
He was energized by travel, taking frequent road trips that always included stops at his favorite restaurants, and by broadcast sports, remaining loyal to his hometown Wisconsin teams even after moving to New England in 2001.
Richard’s big smile, booming voice, and huge laugh made him “larger than life.” He enjoyed making grand, generous, surprise gestures. Even in his illness, he found ways to make others laugh and feel appreciated.
Richard is survived by his wife of 49 years, Linda (nee Nuneviller) Piotrowski; daughter, Aimee (Stephen) Diehl of Cornwall, VT; grandchildren Kyra Diehl and Eryn Diehl; sister, Mary Ann (Ronald) Pabich of Elcho, WI; numerous nieces and nephews; and the Nuneviller, McCool, and Horn families of PA. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Barbara Thomas Gawelko, and his brother, Robert A. “Bob” Piotrowski.
The family is grateful to the staff of Genesis HealthCare, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, and the Jack Byrne Center for their skilled, compassionate care.
A private service will be held for Richard’s family and friends. Memorials to Upper Valley Community Band (P.O. Box 4378, White River Junction, VT 05001-4378) or Homeward Bound, Addison County’s Humane Society (https://www.homewardboundanimals.org/donate/) appreciated.