Richard Joseph Wrazin

Richard Joseph Wrazin, born January 2, 1942, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. He was the beloved husband of 62 years to Gilda (Roberto) Wrazin, his high school sweetheart; devoted father of Dinene (David) Zaleski, Kathleen (James) Kuryak, and Rick (Lisa Crossley) Wrazin; and a loving and proud grandfather to Jake (fiancé Julie Wojciechowski) and Lauren Zaleski, and Noah and Madison Wrazin. He was the cherished son of the late Joseph and Jean M. Wrazin, and brother of the late Robert Wrazin. He was the dear brother-in-law of Eugene (Jean) Roberto, the late Angeline (John) Bowman, and the late Frank Roberto. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Korea, and went on to dedicate over 30 years to Travelers Insurance Company. He was known throughout his life for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to his family, his profession, and his community. A lifelong sports fan and athlete, Richard was an avid supporter of the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, and Los Angeles Dodgers. He had a competitive spirit and a passion for sports, playing football, softball, basketball, and golf, and later participating in Parkinson’s boxing. He was honored to be inducted into the Western New York Softball Hall of Fame and was also a member of the Insurance Softball Hall of Fame and the Third Warders Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Eldredge Bicycle Club, the Third Warders Social Club, and the Renaissance Club. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the Insurance Club of Buffalo and was active in both the Insurance Agents Association of Western New York and the Western New York Insurance Club. He also generously volunteered his time with the Boys & Girls Club of the Tonawandas, Special Olympics, Buffalo News Kids Day, and Roswell Park. Above all, Richard lived life to the fullest. He worked hard and played hard, showed up for everything, and most of all, loved deeply. To his family, he seemed almost invincible—someone who would do anything for the people he loved. He faced a long journey with Lewy body dementia with remarkable strength, determination, and grace, never losing his spirit or his connection to those around him. He cherished time spent with family and friends, especially during annual family vacations to Hilton Head, where countless memories were made. He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, competitive spirit, and the joy he brought to those around him. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, friendship, and community. Relatives and friends may visit the Wattengel Funeral Home 533 Meadow Dr., North Tonawanda on Friday, May 1st from 3:00 - 7:00 PM . A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 2nd at 10:30 AM at The UB North Newman Center 495 Skinnersville Rd. Amherst. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson’s Boxing - 1770 Colvin Blvd. Town of Tonawanda, NY 14223 and Lewy Body Dementia Association https://lbda.org/donate

Richard Joseph Wrazin

January 2, 1942 - April 27, 2026