Richard J. Slowik, age 75, of Derby, son of the late Julian and Stephanie Stawowa Slowik of Derby, lost a courageous battle to cancer on Sunday, January 4, 2015 with his loving family by his side. He left this world the same way he lived it, with dignity and grace, and in doing so brought great comfort to those he loved.
He was a lifelong resident of Derby and a graduate of Derby High School.
He leaves his wife of 57 years Frances K. Baklik Slowik, sister Sharon DiVincenzo and husband Mike of Orange, children Richard Jr and wife Yvonne Thompson Slowik of Cheshire, Diane LaBonia and husband Robert of Cheshire, Kenneth Slowik and wife Monica Schwarz Slowik of Orange, James Slowik and wife Patricia Hannon Slowik of Derby and Ronald Slowik and wife Kathy Netto Slowik of Derby. He also leaves twelve grandchildren; Richard Slowik III, Amy and Mathew LaBonia, Cassandra, Julian and Christian Slowik, Samuel and Sophia Slowik and Samantha, Nicholas, Benjamin and Anthony Slowik.
Other survivors include brother in law Andrew and Madeline Baklik, Thomas and Diane Baklik, his Aunt Stella Pawlyk and several nieces and nephews.
He attended the Universities of Bridgeport and New Haven and worked as a Manufacturing Engineering and Program Manager at Sikorsky Aircraft. He was instrumental in the success of the H53, VH Presidential, UH60 Blackhawk and S92 helicopter programs. He was a member of the American Helicopter Society and retired in 1999 after 41 years of service. He was a technical consultant for Oxford Industries during his retirement.
He attended St Michael’s parochial School in Derby and was the 2014 recipient of the Spirit of St. Mary- St. Michael School award.
He played football for Derby High School and was awarded the Albarella Trophy for most outstanding player.
He was an accomplished accordionist, had his own band, The Melody Bells, and also played horn as a member of the Connecticut Hurricanes March and Drum Corp.
He was president of the Connecticut Jaycees which created Derby Pop Warner Football and was the first president. He was member of the Polish Falcons Club.
He was an avid golfer and past Member of Newtown Country Club and current member of Racebrook Country Club.
He cherished his time with family and friends and enjoyed traveling, including vacationing at his Myrtle Beach SC condo. He loved all sports and was an avid New York Yankees, New England Patriot and UConn Husky fan.
Friends may call on Thursday January 8, 2014 from 4pm to 8 pm at the Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth St. Derby. His funeral will leave the funeral home on Friday at 9:15 am for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Jude Church, Derby. Burial will follow in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to ST. Mary-ST. Michael School, 14 Seymour Ave. Derby, CT 06418.
Leave online condolences to the family at www.adzimafh.com
