Robert D. Raczka, 60, of the Town of Niagara passed away on August 31, 2016 at Niagara Hospice House. Born in Jacksonville, FL, he is the son of Robert R. (Judy) Raczka of Burt, NY and Diana Reger of Snyder, NY.

Robert moved to the area as a child with his family and attended local schools. He served in the United States Navy from July 9, 1980 until his honorable discharge on December 17, 1982. Robert worked as a painter with the Painters and Allied Trades International Union District Council #4 in Buffalo and was mainly involved in the rigging and painting of area bridges. He was honored by law enforcement for his bravery when he saved two young boys by repelling down the Niagara Gorge and securing them until rescue help was able to reach them. Robert was an avid sports fan and a New York State archery champion. He also enjoyed playing darts, working on home projects, spending time with his pets and vacationing annually in the Florida Keys with his father and step-mother. Above all Robert, loved spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, Robert is survived by his loving companion of twenty six years Barbara (McDonald) Brusino, one son Robert (Renee) Roberts, two grandchildren, Savannah and Kaori, two brothers, Daniel (Lisa) Raczka and David John (Mary) Raczka, two sisters, Wendy (Joszef) Nagy and Cara (Robert) Burton, four step-sisters, Diane Huntington, Connie (Wayne) Gosselin, Robin Ripple and Joanne (Daniel) Huntington. He is also survived by Barbara's parents, Alvin (late Carol) McDonald, her siblings, Thomas (Carolyn) McDonald, Donna Dwyer, Mark (Chris) McDonald, Michael McDonald and Jackie (Kevin) Bryans as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Friday from 4 – 8 p.m. at
M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY where funeral services will begin on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Vincent DePaul at St. Leo's Church, 2748 Military Road, Niagara Falls, concluding with Military Honors. Entombment will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Niagara Hospice, Inc., 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094.