Richard M. Mrofka

Published in The Repository on May 29, 2010

Richard M. Mrofka age 72, of Massillon passed away Friday, May 28, 2010 at his residence. He was born Oct. 6, 1937 in Massillon, the son of the late Mike and Marybell (Pattinson) Mrofka.

Dick graduated from Washington High School in 1955 where he was the Outstanding Senior Boy. He pitched and helped the Tigers to 1955 Ohio baseball finals.

He was MVP of the 1955 Ohio All Star Game where he struck out 16 and was selected All-Ohio. He pitched for and graduated Bachelor of Business Administration from Indiana University in1960.

He played minor league professional ball for the Chicago White Sox. For two years he pitched for Canton Halter Construction and was selected Stark County All-Star and in 1997 he was inducted into the Stark County Baseball Hall of Fame.

He was employed as a Sales and Systems Analyst for R.C.A. Computer Systems from 1960-1971 and five times achieved Quota Club. He surely would have achieved executive status without his illness.

He has lived with Multiple Sclerosis for 50 years, yet maintained an admirable positive outlook.

Dick was blessed with a magnetic personality. Many friends and major sports figures were drawn to and greatly benefited from knowing him. He had a quick and subtle wit which would suddenly spring forth with humor.

He was an inspiration to all on how to live with extreme adversity and die with dignity. He inspired his niece Chris Weinsheimer to start and complete her R.N. in her late forty's.

Special thanks to his care giver Tom Shockling who provided constant and spiritual comfort.

He is survived by son, Richard J. (Patty) Mrofka of Anderson, Calif., and daughter, Susan Mrofka- Sears of Severen Park, Md.; four grandchildren, Matt, Dakota, Blakaley, and Carter; three nieces; and many loyal and well earned friends.

Dick asks that any donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or the W.H.S. Alumni Association. A committal will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 5, 2010 at Brookfield Cemetery, Massillon on Shaefer rd. off of 32nd St. NW.

A gathering of friends will be announced at the graveside. Messages of comfort and support may be sent to www.paquelet.com.

Paquelet/Massillon 330-833-3222