Richard James Pelkowski, 83 passed away September 18, 2026.
He was the son of the late Peter and Mary Pelkowski of Holloway, Ohio.
He is survived by his daughters, Rose (Larry) Hydu, Amy (Jason) Carroll, grandson Carter Carroll, sister Carolyn Henry, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was the beloved husband of the late Susan (Benny) Pelkowski and son Peter James (P.J.) Pelkowski.
Richard worked in many trades and thrived in all. He supported his family so his wife Susan could be at home with their children. Coal mining became his life, and he worked tireless hours making his family’s dreams come true.
Richard enjoyed the outdoors but also cherished his family and friends. If you were a friend to Richard, you were a friend for life. He did not know a stranger. He was always the brightlight at any gathering. He always had a joke to tell and loved to make people laugh.
Richard always made fun times for his family, from amusement park trips to blizzard bonfires. He was always the one smiling and laughing. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family. His friends and family will remember him as honest, easy going, and full of life.
Richard enjoyed spending time with friends and family at the Fairpoint Polish Club, where he was a lifetime member. He served as the President for the Old Timers Association in Holloway, Ohio. He also served his community as a council member for the Village of Holloway, Ohio.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Joseph A. Yablonski Memorial Clinic, 1070 Old National Pike, Fredericktown, PA 15333.
A celebration of life will be planned for the future with dates to be provided.
