Richard B. Pietrzak, 70, of Schererville, IN, and Naples, FL, passed away on July 6, 2026. He was born on September 7, 1955. He is survived by his mother, Jean Pala; wife, Joyce Pietrzak; son, Rich (Kristen) Pietrzak; daughter, Stephanie (Rich) Degenais; and grandchildren, Sophie and Millie Pietrzak; Luke, Hank, and Ben Degenais; and Parker and Evan Stafford. He is preceded in death by his son, Andrew Pietrzak; father, Robert Pietrzak; and family friends, Tom Pressler and Ralph Nosal.

Rick and Joyce would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 31st. They had a beautiful life together, raising their three kids to value family and the importance of hard work. He was an incredible father who became a truly epic Papa to his grandkids. It would be impossible to overstate how much he loved them, and how much they will miss him.

He started Lithographic Communications in Munster, IN, in 1988, growing the business into the area’s largest and most successful printing company. He was an incredible mentor to many employees, loyal partner to his clients, and respected business owner. He couldn’t have done it without the support of his close friend and business confidante, Bob Evans.

While his professional success was admirable, his social life was, by most accounts, legendary. Doc, as he was affectionately known, collected many friends over the years who became family, spending time with them on the golf course, at home watching a Cubs game, or holding court at Gamba. And always with a Goose and cranberry in hand.

He never missed his grandsons’ games, reliving his little league coaching days from the bleachers. He couldn’t resist moving the furniture a few inches or sharing often unsolicited advice (mostly inspirational sports quotes) to his children.

Most importantly, he would have given anything for more time here with everyone he loved.

Visitation is Thursday, July 9, from 3:00-7:00 pm, with a 7:00 pm service at Kish Funeral Home at 10000 Calumet Avenue in Munster, IN, followed by a memorial luncheon on Friday, July 10 at 11:30 pm at Gamba Ristorante at 455 E. 84th Drive in Merrillville, IN. In lieu of flowers, please donate in his memory to the American Cancer Society. https://donate.cancer.org/

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