Obituary of Richard Masek

Richard Joseph Masek, 75, passed away Friday July 8, 2011 after an extended illness and surrounded by his wife and children. Funeral Mass will be held at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, Monday, July 11, 2011 at 12 o?clock noon, followed by a luncheon in the church hall. Born in Ashtabula, Ohio on September 10, 1935, oldest of three children to Vincent and Anne Masek, started his family in Cleveland, Ohio before making his home in Columbia, SC when his family moved with Square ?D? Electric Company in 1972. He was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church, president of Spring Valley Band Booster Club from 1978-1979, president of the Columbia Square Dance Twirlers in 1996 and retired from Square D Company in 1995. He and Mary Ann spent many wonderful years raising their children, enjoying Square Dancing and traveling. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Mary Ann Masek, with whom he raised five children. Surviving in addition to his wife are his son Jim and friend Russell, his daughters, Julie Lightsey and Bill, Kim Smith and Lamar, Patty Leonard and Arthur, and Kathy Watts. He is also survived by his grandchildren Dwane, Arthur Jr., Kristen, Jessica, Caroline, Heath, Johnathan, Katy, Sara Beth, Madison, James, and Eric. His surviving siblings are Donald Masek and his wife Carrie of Ashtabula, Ohio, and Joyce Holub and her husband Larry of Cheyenne, Wyoming. He also is survived by his four nieces, Bobbie, Debbie, Lee Ann and Pamela. The family wishes to thank the caring staff at the 11th floor Cancer Center at Palmetto Richland Hospital, Palmetto Heart Hospital CCU Unit and Dr. Gonzales and his staff. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. John Neumann Catholic Church.