Having had a beautiful start to his day, Ryszard (Richard) Lukasz Szwedo unexpectedly left this life on Saturday, February 10, 2024, to sudden heart failure.

Richard was born on May 4, 1954, to his parents Wladyslaw and Janina Szwedo in Rudnik, Poland. He joined his older brother Jan and later welcomed his two younger brothers Kazimierz and Marian. Richard’s twinkle in his eye and mischievous grin never left him from childhood.

In 1972 at the age of 17, Richard took the opportunity to move his life to Toronto and live with his grandmother Maria, and aunt Stanislawa. In 1980 Richard met the love of his life Gabriela and they were married on October 9, 1981. They welcomed their two children, Jacqueline (grandchildren Madeleine and James), and Mathew (wife Karen, grandchildren Sebastian and Hazel).

Richard was adamant about creating his own path of success in a new country, that he inspired in others. From his 30+ year career at Ford Motor Company in Oakville, to moonlighting as the Kielbasa King at gate #12, Richard gave his fans much to look forward to at the end of the work week. During his retirement Richard enjoyed traveling to the shores of the Bay of Quinte, his ideal spot for fishing and hosting countless cookouts with friends. Richard relished every opportunity to spend time with his family, enjoying Saturday brunches at home, planning trips with Gabriela and showering his grandchildren with love and attention.

Richard was a steadfast friend, especially known for his clever sense of humour. He will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and the greatest Dziadzia to his grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2