Republic – Richard J. Czimer Sr., age 92, of 5886 Hwy M-95 in Humboldt Twp., and formerly of Lockport, IL passed away on Tuesday August 14, 2007 at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette where he had resided for the past month.

Richard was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 4, 1914 to John and Bertha (Balazs) Czimer. He was a member of the United States Army in the 34th Infantry Division from 1941 – 1945 serving in North Africa and Italy during World War II earning the Purple Heart and suffering 3 wounds. Richard married Phyllis E. Mattila on April 6, 1941.

Richard and his brothers Rudolph and Arthur owned Czimer Foods first in Chicago and from 1970 on, in Lockport, IL which specialized in the preparation of game meat, and fish. Richard enjoyed gardening, woodworking and had a very strong work ethic, working six days a week. He was very proud of his home in Lockport, which he did the inside finishing work on. Richard had a specialty of making canes and golf putters from the male portion of the buffalo.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Phyllis E. Czimer of Republic, MI, two sons: Richard J. Czimer Jr. of Lockport, IL, & William J. (Darla) Czimer of North Canton OH, grandchildren: Matthew, Erin & April, two nieces and two nephews.

He was preceded in death by a daughter Phyllis Roxanne Czimer, four brothers: Rudolph, Arthur, Theodore, and John Jr. in his teenage years.


A memorial service will be held at 2:00p.m. Sunday, August 19, 2007 at the Bethany Lutheran Church in Republic with Rev Katherine Finegan officiating. The family will greet friends from 1:00p.m. until the time of service at the church on Sunday. Inurnment will take place at the Republic Cemetery at a later date.