WORCESTER___Walter S. Rydzewski, 79, of 12 Euclid Ave., died peacefully Tuesday evening at UMASS Memorial Medical Center in the presence of his loving family.
He leaves his wife of 57 years, Ruth B. (Volungis) Rydzewski; four sons, Walter D. Rydzewski of Manchaug; Mark A. Rydzewski of Oxford; Paul Rydzewski of Leicester and David Rydzewski of Worcester; a daughter, Nancy A. Burchett of Duluth, GA., two sisters, Stephanie T. Wolochowicz of East Douglas and Alexandra E. Pietrewicz of Three Rivers; four grandchildren and several nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by a sister, Wanda K. Rydzewski. He was born in Worcester, son of Boleslaw and Frances (Szewczyk) Rydzewski and lived here all his life.
Mr. Rydzewski was a Captain for the City of Worcester Fire Department. He retired in 1986 after 26 years on the department. He was appointed a firefighter on Feb. 21, 1960 and served with Engine 9 at Tatnuck Square, Ladder 7 at Winslow St., Engine 2 at South Division; Ladder 2 at Headquarters and Engine 5 at Webster Square. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1972 and was promoted to Captain in 1982.
He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and served in the Pacific and European theaters of operations.
Mr. Rydzewski was a member of Our Lady of Czestochowa Church and Vernon Hill Post 435 American Legion. He graduated from Classical High School and attended Quinsigamond Community College.
His kind, loving and caring nature touched many lives. He was a true humanitarian; and exceptionally gifted person who enjoyed working on small intricate mechanical components.
The funeral will be held on Saturday Oct. 23 from HENRY-DIRSA FUNERAL HOME, 33 Ward St., with a Mass at 10:30 a.m. in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 34 Ward St. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery. Calling hours in the funeral home are Friday Oct. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 20 Speen St, Framingham, 01701 or to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, 01701.