JAMISON, PENNSYLVANIA - Richard Palecek peacefully passed on Friday, January 31, 2014 at his home with his family by his side. He was 89.

Born September 28, 1924, Richard has lived a long and wonderful life. He is a retired New York Times employee working in the Auditing Department at the Times. Richard received the prestigious Idea Award from the New York Times in 1978, which saved the Times a tremendous amount of money and afforded Richard early retirement to travel and spend more time with his children and grandchildren.

The son of a Czechoslovakian immigrant mother, Stefina (deceased) and a New York City worker Father, Louis (deceased), and brother to Arthur Palecek (deceased). Richard is survived by his children Lawrence, Steven, Richard, and his wife, Cindy, Raymond, Russel and his wife, Anne Marie, Joan Connors and her husband Raymond Connors. Richard left behind 19 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Richard served his country in World War II as an Aviation Engineer building airstrips and bridges in Dutch New Guinea. He was a hero not only for his country but also in the hearts of his loved ones. Richard received the Bronze Star three times, the New Guinea Campaign, South Pacific Campaign and the Philippine Liberation. He received the Asian Pacific Campaign Ribbon for service with the Asiatic-Pacific Theater between December 7, 1941 and March 2, 1946. The Philippine Liberation Ribbon for service in the liberations of the Philippines from October 17, 1944 to September 3, 1945. Richard also received the Victory Metal, which is awarded to the members of the crew ships who served 30 days or more during December 7, 1941 to September 3, 1945.

Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family in a celebration of Richard s life at the Doylestown United Methodist Church, 320 E. Swamp Road, Doylestown, PA 18901 on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at 11 am where a viewing will be held from 10-11 am prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard s name to American Lung Association, 527 Plymouth Road, Suite 415, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 or www.lung.org

Send condolences to www.varcoethomasfuneralhome.com