RICHARD M. “RICH” PRUSAK, age 57, of Northfield. Loving companion of 34 years to Monica (nee Boczek); son of the late Bernard F. and the late Evelyn (nee Javor); dearest friend to Gregg Geldart (Lesley), Adam Geldart (Kimberly), beloved step-dad to Andrew Geldart (Breanna) and John Konisiewicz (Kristen); grandfather to Alex (fiancee Sophia), Joe, Gabby, Alyson, Rebekah, Jonah, Lilliana, Micah, Lydia, and Elizabeth; brother to Dave (Sue), Bob (Amie), Marianne Mimms (Frank), and Laura Schreiber (Dennis); caring uncle and friend to many. A dedicated Cleveland Metropolitan middle school math teacher of 28 years, at 6” 9’ Rich towered over the classroom and made learning fun. He could always be found providing extra help to his students. Whether it was walking a student home, providing snacks to those who were hungry, or staying after school three nights a week to tutor any child who asked for help, Rich was always there for his students. He loved attending their games, helping with the newspaper, or just listening to music with them in the classroom. During Covid, even though he was in physical pain, Rich went to the home of every one of his eighth-grade graduates to present diplomas and take pictures just so they didn’t have to miss out on that special moment.
The same dedication Rich demonstrated for his teaching life he showed in his 22 years with Home Depot as a part-time employee in Garden. Rich loved working in “God’s Earth” seeing the fruits of his labor and helping others to find that same joy. Whether going the extra mile to get a grill delivered in time for a special occasion or being featured in a local news story on how many times to “ideally” clean a carpet. Rich always put the customer first.
The dedication and service that Rich displayed throughout his life was a direct result of his deep faith, intense love of God, and devotion to the Holy Eucharist. It was this faith that enabled him to live a life of physical pain yet never complain and in the last days of his life, when asked if he was afraid responded, “What do I have to be afraid of?”
Family and friends may call at THE FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME, 356 W. AURORA RD. (OH RTE 82), SAGAMORE HILLS FOR VISITATION ON SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2023 FROM 2:00 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M. Funeral Service 10:00 A.M. Monday, May 22, 2023 at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 A.M. Monday, May 22, 2023 at St. Mary Parish, Hudson. Burial to follow All Saints Cemetery, Northfield. Memorial contributions may be made in Rich’s name to either Food for the Poor, 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, Fl 33073 or to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland, 7911 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44102. www.ferfoliafuneralhomes.com.
Obituary: RICHARD M. “RICH” PRUSAK
