Richard James Horak's Obituary
Richard James Horak, 71, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away February 22, 2024. He was born in Martins Ferry, Ohio on September 17, 1952. He moved to Temple Terrace, FL in 1964. Richard loved to cook. Not for himself, but for his family to enjoy. His specialties were breaded crab rolls and chocolate covered strawberries, which he always made on special occasions. Fantasy Football was a favorite of his. He looked forward every year for the day the draft would take place. Richard never, in all the years he played, got to first place with his draft picks. His favorite sports were baseball and football, and of course his teams of choice were the Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. When he couldn’t attend a game in person, he’d be watching it on the television or listening on the radio. He was also a dog lover, even though he wouldn’t admit it. He always had dog treats on his grocery list, even when he had none of his own. Dogs of family members, and dogs of neighbors were his best friend because of those treats. The love of his life was Chloe. She was his miniature Dachshund. He pampered that little girl for 17 years until she passed. At the time of his death, February 22, 2024, Richard resided in Lakeland, FL
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, James Horak Jr. and Doris (Graham) Horak, and a baby sister, Bonnie Kay.
Richard is survived by a sister, Carlene (Dennis) Leones of Lakeland, and their children, Peter Costianes, Deana (Juan) Ramirez, and Scott Leones. He is also survived by a brother, Leonard (Arlene) Horak, and their children Jay (Jennifer) Horak, Brittney (Chase) Schwilk, Kailie Horak, and Tyler Horak. There are also 11 great nieces and nephews.
Richard will be laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens in Thonotosassa, FL, Thursday, February 29.
The burial will be attended by the immediate family and Richard’s close friends.
In lieu of flowers, Richard's family would appreciate memorial donations in his honor to Richard’s favorite charity – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: St Jude's Children's Hospital]https://www.stjude.org/
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