Richard Paul Guzik

Guzik, Richard Paul 59 of Andover MN, lover of humor, hunting, golfing, fishing, and project creator passed away June 26, 2016 at his home under hospice care after a five year battle with cancer surrounded by family and loved ones and his two beloved dogs, Grace and Bessie. Rick entered this world June 3rd, 1957, the eldest son of Richard and June Guzik of New Brighton, MN. Whether with his family or friends, Rick was always on a journey or trip somewhere. And with his ventures, you could always except the notorious Prankster to throw a twist into the story. Rick proudly attended Totino Grace High School in Fridley, MN. Many of his classmates became friends he cherished throughout his lifetime. Rick participated in hockey and football at Grace and continued support of the hockey team into his later years with his venerated Elks Club boys. After high school, Rick attended St. Cloud State University and enjoyed the college experience so much he decided to stay for eight years, eventually earning his bachelor's degree in Business. If being social was a study, Rick earned his doctorate. Rick took the most fun job he could think of upon graduating college - a beer truck delivery driver. The hours and pay didn't coincide with raising a family so after a brief career as a mortgage officer he ultimately joined his family business: Arkad, a specialized manufacturing company in Blaine, MN. There, he was able to utilize his natural gifts in engineering to find the creative solution to any problem. Perhaps Rick's best bar experience was meeting the love of his life for almost 30 years, Susan Klein of St. Cloud. They married August 16, 1986 in Rockville, MN, celebrating the reception as newly weds barn-style at the Klein family farm, beginning their lifelong partnership. They enjoyed surrounding themselves with their large group of friends and family in any social setting, most notably hosting Rick's famous BBQ ribs at their house. All who met Rick described him as the the most generous person they have ever met. He had more friends than this world should allow. The core of his life was his ability to make the people around him laugh. Some of his friends that haven't had to block all of Rick's emails, will miss his seeing his messages in the future. Rick was most proud of his two children, Alexandra (Joe) Manatt and Paul Guzik. He was happy to be able to walk his daughter down the aisle in August 2015. He was looking forward to seeing his son Paul fulfill his dream of becoming a physician. He was the godfather of multiple children, and adored all of his many nieces and nephews. Rick is survived by his wife, Susan of 29 years, his children, Alexandra (Joe) and Paul, his parents Richard and June Guzik, his brothers and sisters Tim, Tom, Elizabeth, and Suzanne as well as many other relatives and friends. Visitation will be held from 9am-11am on FRIDAY, JULY 1st at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale St NW, Cedar, MN. A funeral service will follow at 11am. Lunch will be served after the funeral service at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Rick Guzik, Minnesota Colorectal Cancer Research Fund 21261. Please send gifts to: Masonic Cancer Center University of Minnesota Foundation PO Box 860266 Minneapolis, MN 55486-0266