Richard James Oleksa's Obituary
Richard James Oleksa of Fort Myers, Florida, better known simply as “Dick” to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024 following some recent health challenges. He was 86 years old.
Dick was born on May 13, 1938 in Hazle Township, Pennsylvania, the proud son to Elizabeth (Berish) and Joseph Oleksa, and the youngest of six children. He was a Veteran of the United States Navy and spent his working years as a Produce Broker for C.H. Robinson. He was the loving husband to the late Sharon Kay (Anderson) Oleksa who sadly preceded him in passing in 2017 and loving grandfather to Jennifer who preceded him in 2022.
Dick leaves to cherish his loving memory his son Richard (Michelle) of Clovis, CA, daughter Denise of Fort Myers, FL and son Kenneth (Fifie Van Dusen) of Las Vegas, NV. Seven grandchildren, Dana Charles (Curtis), Ryan, Ashlyn, Matthew, Courtney Daily (C.J.), Amanda (fiancé David Wright) and Delaney and great granddaughter Ada Jennifer Charles and many nieces and nephews.
While working in Omaha Dick met his future wife Sharon and they married May 12, 1962. They relocated to Cleveland, Ohio where they called home and raised their family, then retiring to Fort Myers, FL where they enjoyed golfing with many friends at The Forest Country Club and cruising the world with their fabulous friends. Dick was devoted to his family and faith, he was patient, kind, loving, generous and forgiving. He loved Christmas and always lit up the neighborhood with his decorations and light displays. His memory and spirit will continue to light up our lives.
In keeping with his wishes, a cremation will take place with a Mass to be celebrated on Friday, December 13, 2024 at 11 a.m., St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 12171 Iona Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Richard J. Oleksa to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675 (www.woundedwarriorproject.org ).
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907, (239) 936-0555. Online condolences may be offered at: www.fortmyersmemorial.com.
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