Celebrating the Life of Air Force Veteran Richard Granacki: A Community Farewell

Celebrating the Life of Air Force Veteran Richard Granacki: A Community Farewell

Richard Lee Granacki, a resident of Debary, Florida, and a proud Air Force veteran, passed away on June 2, 2025. Born on January 16, 1943, in Michigan City, Indiana, Richard’s life was marked by service, faith, and family. Known for his quick wit and corny dad jokes, Richard brought laughter wherever he went, earning him the endearing nickname of „Chevy Chase“ among family members. He attended St. Stanislaus Catholic School, a staple in his early education that served the Polish-speaking Catholic community in Michigan City, and graduated from Elston High School before furthering his education at Purdue University.

Throughout his life, Granacki maintained a deep commitment to his Catholic faith, attending Mass every Sunday. His devotion was a cornerstone of his life, reflecting the rich tradition of the parish he attended, the Saint Stanislaus Kostka Roman Catholic Parish. Established in 1891, the parish has long been a beacon for Polish-speaking Catholics, contributing significantly to the cultural and religious tapestry of Michigan City.

A Celebration of Life and Legacy

Granacki is survived by his loving wife Eva and their children, Brandy (Trey) Abshier, Chandler Granacki, sister Patricia Dolzal, and grandchildren Harper, Savannah, and Lake. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Eva, and his son, Paul Granacki. A Mass in his honor is scheduled for August 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church. Following the Mass, he will be laid to rest at St. Stanislaus Cemetery at 11:15 AM.

The St. Stanislaus Church community represents a family spirit that has flourished over the years. The congregation, with its historical roots tied to the great wave of Polish immigration, prides itself on its cultural heritage while welcoming a more diverse membership today. Volunteers contribute countless hours to uphold the vibrant parish life that Granacki was a part of.

Community Ties and Historical Significance

St. Stanislaus Church, known for its architectural beauty, serves not just as a house of worship but as a historical and cultural landmark in the area. The church’s foundation, laid between 1916 and 1926, was a labor of love from the congregation, illustrating a deep commitment to their community. The church’s evolution reflects the ongoing relationship between faith and culture in Michigan City, where Polish traditions survive through generations.

Granacki’s connection to this parish highlights the significance of the Polish National Catholic Church, a movement founded to address the needs of Polish immigrants in the U.S. It broke away from the Roman Catholic Church due to various theological and administrative disputes. This independent church now serves approximately 30,000 members across the U.S. and Canada, enriching the spiritual landscape with its own traditions and by welcoming people from all walks of life.

Richard Lee Granacki’s passing creates a void in the hearts of those who knew him, yet his legacy will live on through his family and the boundless joy he spread throughout his life. As the community prepares to come together for a final farewell, the spirit of connection and remembrance will surely shine through amid the mourning, reflecting a life well-lived.