Dr. Richard Anthony Krzyzek

Dr. Richard A. Krzyzek, 79, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on January 28, 2026, surrounded by family. Richard was raised in Seekonk, Massachusetts, and was a graduate of St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. His accomplishments in the classroom and on the football field earned him a scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. Richard had an exceptional collegiate football career and was named to the AP All-New England team in 1966. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and received the John C. Lawlor Medal for academic and athletic excellence for his graduating class of 1968. Despite being offered the opportunity to play professionally for the then "Boston" Patriots, Richard chose to pursue graduate studies at the University of Minnesota, where he earned a Ph.D. in Microbiology and his continued postdoctoral research was supported by a prestigious National Cancer Institute Public Health Service fellowship grant. Richard also served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a medical specialist at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Richard began his professional career as an Assistant Research Professor in the University of Minnesota's Department of Microbiology. He later spent 12 years at Molecular Genetics, Inc., where he authored numerous scientific publications and secured two patents related to his pioneering work in genetically modified corn. Of equal importance to him were the lifelong friendships he formed with colleagues. In 1992, Richard joined R&D Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Bio-Techne, where he served as Vice President of Research for the Biotechnology Division until his retirement in 2013. Richard had many talents and passions. He found great joy in the outdoors, spending countless hours putzing around the family cabin while listening to his beloved rock music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s on 107.5 The Power Loon, or heading out to fish. Watching (and re-watching) action movies and thrillers was a favorite pastime. In retirement, he became deeply committed to sharing his lifetime of gardening knowledge, serving as a University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener volunteer and as a member of the Minnesota Gladiolus Society. Richard also really loved food-whether it was warm, fresh bread; milk and cereal; grilled kielbasa; any dessert; or late-night chips, it never lasted long. Above all else, Richard's greatest joy came from spending time with his family. From catching fly balls with Charles to shooting hoops with Elizabeth, he was his children's number one fan. Richard and Judith recently celebrated their 57th anniversary, and despite the unfair burdens of chronic illness, one constant remained throughout their marriage: they did everything together. Richard's quiet support, genuine love, and wise guidance left a lasting mark on all who knew him-one that will never fade. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Gabriella Krzyzek. He is survived by his wife, Judith (Pryce) Krzyzek; daughter Elizabeth Neil (Roderick) and granddaughters Vesper and Tessa; son Charles Krzyzek (Kelly) and granddaughters Leah and Paige; along with many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly. A remembrance celebration will be held on February 26 at the Church of St. Patrick of Edina, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., and a luncheon reception to follow. Please park in the parish's west parking lot for entrance into the Mahon Center. Urn interment is planned for August 14 at Notre Dame Cemetery in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Tributes

Dr. Richard Anthony Krzyzek

August 30, 1946 - January 28, 2026

Tributes

Dr. Richard Anthony Krzyzek

August 30, 1946 - January 28, 2026

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