Richard Francis "Dick" Tafelsky, 74, a life resident of Traverse City, passed away Monday, January 13, 2020 at Traverse Manor Assisted Living in Traverse City.

Dick was born on Sunday, February 11, 1945 to the late Philip and Bonnie (Thompson) Tafelsky in Traverse City. He graduated from St. Francis High School. He was previously married and helped raise his two children. Having worked at Burwood Products for 25 years, he had been promoted to Supervisor while there. He then was employed at Waste Management for 11 years and retired at age 63.

He is survived by his brothers, William "Bill" (Debby) Tafelsky of Three Rivers, Kenneth "Ken" Tafelsky of Traverse City and sister, Patricia "Pat" (Tafelsky) (Mel) Workman, also of Traverse City. Also surviving are his two sons, Thomas "Tom" Tafelsky of Seattle, WA and Michael "Mike" (Carol) Tafelsky of Burlington, North Carolina. Two grandchildren, Nicholas Tafelsky and Elijah-Silas Tafelsky survive as well. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Bonnie and his granddaughter, Michaella Tafelsky.

Dick thoroughly enjoyed his interest in any kind of sports. He could tell you anything informational about almost all sports activities. He was a great comfort to his children; was a quiet man, social-like, and would strike up a conversation if someone started talking to him. He had a very good heart. His family will really miss him.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 20, 2020 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with visitation one hour prior to the Mass. The Rev. Fr. James Hayden will celebrate the Mass. Entombment will be in the Oakwood Catholic Diocesan Cemetery Mausoleum.

The family has asked that memorial contributions be directed to the organization helping with the fight against Tays-Sachs disease of which his granddaughter had. Donations can be made by visiting NTSAD.org or by mail at NTSAD, 2001 Beacon Street, Suite 204, Boston, MA 02135.