Richard W. Suwarsky Obituary
A Celebration of Rick's Life will take place sometime this fall. Memorial contributions may be made to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, in c/o the funeral home.
Age 57, of Lawton, passed away on Sunday evening, August 18, 2024. Rick was born in Watervliet, MI, on September 10, 1966, to John and George Anne (Suwarsky) Sternaman. When Rick was very young his mother tragically died. He was adopted by his grandparents, Walter and Jean Suwarsky, who gave him a loving home. He also had many other special people in his life who provided him with parental guidance and love, including aunts, Bonnie Suwarsky Wolf and Connie Suwarsky Tary, David and Helga Brayton, and especially Gordon and Jean Kern and the members of their family who were very special to him. With each transition he gained cherished extended family members and people who impacted his life. On June 29, 1991, he married Tamara Kissane who survives him. Rick and Tami had met at Nazareth College in 1985. They were blessed with twins in 1995. Rick's family was the center of his life. He worked for many years as an Ordinance Enforcement officer for Oshtemo Township and had also been employed by the City of Kalamazoo in community development. He was also a licensed builder. Rick was a beloved coach for Mattawan Little League and several travel ball organizations. Rick coached various softball and baseball teams from 2000 to 2017 while his children were playing. He was an active member on the Board of Directors for Mattawan Little League. Rick loved nature, especially Acadia National Park in Maine. He loved kayaking. Rick had an affection and appreciation for music of all genres. He was a generous soul. No one was ever a stranger to him. To know him, was to love him. He had a special place in his heart for people in need. Besides his wife, Rick is survived by his children, Kevin Suwarsky and Kara Suwarsky; father-in-law, Thomas Kissane; sisters-in-law, Michelle Antinarelli, and Holli Kissane; nieces and nephews; and countless friends, including Rod Rought; and his four-legged Siberian Husky pals, Oakley and Jasmine. Rick was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Joyce Kissane; and special friends, Ed Brayton, Louis Johnson and Brian Kloth.
