Richard "Dick" Joseph Graziano

Richard Joseph Graziano, of Minnetonka, MN, passed away peacefully January 25, 2021 after a brief illness.

He was 89 and preceded in death by beloved wife of 48 years, Barbara (whom he met in kindergarten); parents, John and Maria Graziano; sister, Margaret Hecker; and brothers, James, August, John, and Anthony Graziano. Dearly remembered and forever loved by daughter, Gina (Kris); and sons, Ricci (Judy) and Adam; 11 grandchildren, Emily, Madeline, Kathryn, Stephanie, Stefan, Jon, Nick, Peter, Noah, Ian, and Paige; plus 9 great-grandchildren; and sister, Rosemarie Barringer. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

Dick was a graduate of De LaSalle High School’s class of ’49. He joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served during the Korean conflict performing RADAR installation while stationed in Biloxi, MS and Point Arena, CA. Dick graduated from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities in ’59 with three majors: English Literature, Social Studies, and History. An avid Minnesota sports fan, Dick was also a selfless friend, youth baseball and basketball coach, and church member, routinely putting everyone’s interests ahead of his own.

Dick retired after a 36-year career with Honeywell, working in international marketing for fire alarm and security products and flying more than one million miles to 40+ countries; his favorite destination was Hong Kong. Dick’s outgoing personality was legendary; his children grew up convinced “Dad knows everybody !” Dick will be long remembered by all who knew him – he was a good friend to so many; heaven couldn’t wait. We miss you, dad!

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for family at The Basilica of St. Mary, followed by a private interment at Lakewood Cemetery. A celebration to honor Dick’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials to donor’s choice or to The Basilica Landmark, 88 North 17th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55403.