Richard J. Marchewka

     Richard “Rich” Joyal Marchewka, 77, beloved husband of 55 years of Christine Marchewka, died July 18, 2023 of a Cardiac Arrest after a back surgery and brief illness.

    Born in St. Paul, MN, he was the son of Lawrence Marchewka and Virginia Michalski Marchewka.  He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Dana Marchewka. Rich graduated from St Joseph High School, St. Joseph, MI and immediately joined the United States Marine Corps.  He spent 7 years active duty which included a tour of Vietnam.  Later in life he joined the United States Coast Guard and retired from the Military in 2000.  He spent most of his working life in Law Enforcement; 11 years with the Cook County Sheriff’s Police/State’s Attorney’s office as a Patrolman/Investigator and at the same time earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Lewis University and a Master’s Degree from Roosevelt University.  He then spent 20 years as a Special Agent with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation where he pioneered the establishment of a Computer Forensic Department.  After retirement, he continued to work at the KBI as a civilian. 

    Over the years Rich enjoyed traveling, sailing, volunteering at local Theaters and was an avid and talented Woodworker. He belonged to several organizations including the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Kansas Police Officer’s Association and Certified Fraud Examiners and held a half dozen professional Designations. His favorite recent activity was to sew hand-puppets that he would later donate to places like Safe Home & the Ronald McDonald House. 

    Left to cherish his memory are his wife; son, Blake (Karen Anderson); Grandsons Spencer and Andy of Glendale, CA, and his sister, Laurene Marchewka of Niles, MI. He will be greatly missed by many friends, neighbors and co-workers.

     A graveside service will be held at a later date in Ft. Jackson National Cemetery, Columbia, SC.

    In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to a Veteran’s Organization or to Golden Harvest Food Bank (www.goldenharvest.org) .

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC