Richard "Dick" Eugene Parolek, formerly of Columbus died unexpectedly on Monday, April 22nd at his home in Wilber, NE. He was born in Schuyler on July 8th, 1944 to Mary Ann (Jindra) and Joseph M. Parolek. He married Edwina "Eddie" J. Parolek on August 31st, 1963 in Columbus. He worked for Becton Dickinson in Columbus for 42 years as well as doing carpentry and roofing for the nearly the same amount of time.

He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing and growing tomatoes and cucumbers in his garden. Whatever his hands could find to do, he did it with all his might. He always had a smile on his face and loved to make people laugh. He never knew a stranger. He loved Husker sports and traveled to all of the National Championship games in the '90's with his wife, Eddie. Richard was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who will be greatly missed.

Richard is survived by his wife, Eddie of 55 years; sons, Terry Parolek (Barb) of Omaha, Richard D. Parolek (Duong) of Watauga, TX, Jason Parolek (Emily) of Palmyra, and Troy Parolek of Lincoln. Richard had 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; Joe and Mary Ann Parolek and a sister Christine.

A lunch will be served at noon on Saturday, April 27th @ St. Wenceslas Catholic Church in Wilber followed by a celebration of life at 1 pm at the same location. Cremation, no visitation. Memorials may be given to the family or sent to St. Wenceslas Catholic Church @ 501 N. Wilson Street, Wilber, NE 68465. Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete is handling arrangements.