Richard Chester Olejnik, Sr.

Richard Chester Olejnik, Sr (age 75), beloved husband, father, grandfather, retired Detroit Police Officer, farmer, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and deep love for those closest to him. Born and raised on a farm, he learned the value of perseverance and determination at an early age. Those qualities stayed with him throughout his entire life. In his early adulthood, he proudly served as a Detroit Police Officer, dedicating himself to protecting others before retiring nearly 40 years ago. Following his retirement from law enforcement, he returned to the farm life he loved and poured his heart and soul into building and growing the family business, where his work ethic and commitment became an example to all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife Jamie, with whom he shared laughter, adventures and a strong bond for over 18 years. They were married in 2016. He shared 31 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Cathy, until her passing. Together they built a strong and loving family that remained the center of his life. He was the proud father of four children: Lori (Wally) Morrison, Rick (Jenny) Olejnik, Michele (Adam) Gale, and Colleen (David) Nestorios. He also embraced Jamie’s children, Chuck, Alex, and Ben, as part of his family. His greatest joy was his growing family. He was a loving grandfather to Samantha, Evan, Collin, Tyler, Bryce, Travis, Emily, Landon, Olivia, Emma, Charlie, Rory, Andrew, Adriaan, and Andersen, whom he loved dearly. He treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren and took pride in watching each generation grow. He is survived by his brothers, Bob (Peggy) Olejnik and Mike (Carol) Olejnik. He is preceded in death by his first wife Cathy, brother Jerry (Norene) Olejnik and sister Linda (John) Rudich. Outside of work and family, he enjoyed hunting, bowling, trap shooting, horseshoeing, Tigers Baseball, and spending time with friends and loved ones. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying the company of others, he made people feel welcome and valued. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his strength, and the life lessons he taught simply through the way he lived. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and love will continue through the many lives he touched. Though he will be deeply missed by the many people that loved him, we find comfort in knowing that he has left so many happy memories for all of us. We find comfort in believing that he will once again be reunited with those who preceded him in passing. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of his life at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc., 36900 Schoenherr (at Metro Parkway) on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 3-8pm, with service at 7:30pm.

Richard Chester Olejnik, Sr.

May 9, 1951 - June 3, 2026