Richard John Opshinsky

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing on Sunday, June 26, of our wonderful husband, dad, grandfather, father-in-law, brother, uncle, and friend, Rich Opshinsky. He will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones. He was 80. Born October 31, 1941, in Scranton, he was the son of the late John and Helen (Gruscavage) Opshinsky.

Rich is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 57 years, Ann (Mills) Opshinsky. The couple would have celebrated their 58 th wedding anniversary on June 27 th , a love story that began in high school and remained strong through the years.

In addition to his wife, also surviving are daughter Kimberly Kryeski and husband, Ray, Clarks Summit; son Richard Opshinsky and wife, Fay, Cresco; and grandchildren Conor Kryeski and Emily Opshinsky; sister Joan Parry and husband, Tom, who was like a second brother to Rich; cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Rich graduated from Scranton Technical High School. He was active with the US Army for three years earning expert rifle status and the General Thomas J. Stewart Medal. A master carpenter, Rich was a hard worker and willing to help anyone who needed his skills. He sacrificed so much to build the best life for his family. Always wanting to perfect his skills, he received continuing education from The Pennsylvania State University and ICS in carpentry.

Known to so many as "Richie Blue Eyes", he brought a smile to the face of everyone he met. He was a kind, generous, and loving man, a great man. Rich loved life - whether fishing, hunting, golfing, camping, or being with family and friends - he lived every moment to its fullest. He loved working around the house he built for his family and puttering around his yard. Rich was a member of the Carpenter's Local 261 for fifty-six years, the Knights of Columbus, The Polish Club and The Taurus Club.

Rich was the best "Pa" ever. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life. He was also father and grandfather to more than just his own, as everyone called him "Pa" and loved him like their own.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; brother Jack; sisters Diane and Donna; and granddaughter, Sarae.

A special thank you to the entire Geisinger CMC ICU staff for their care and compassion throughout Rich's stay.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Mother of God Holy Rosary Parish, 316 William Street, Scranton. Friends will be received from 8:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rich's name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or Saint Joseph's Center, his favorite charities.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 418 South State Street, Clarks Summit.