Rick Gratch

Richard “Rick” Gratch, 63, passed away at home surrounded by loving family on Thursday, October 12, 2023 in Lakewood, CO. Rick was born February 28, 1960 in Chicago, IL to Morton and Adeline Gratch. Raised in St. Louis Park, MN, Rick was a proud graduate of St. Louis Park High School, Class of 1978, where he formed many lifelong friendships. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he pledged Sigma Alpha Mu and shared many wonderful memories with his fraternity brothers. Rick’s professional career began in the restaurant industry, which culminated in owning and operating Caffe Pranzo in Oklahoma City for 17 years. After retiring from the restaurant industry, Rick served as the Executive Director of Temple B’nai Israel in Oklahoma City and then Congregation B’nai Emunah in Tulsa.

On October 10, 1993, Rick and Janiece Rozin were married, marking the start of their beautiful love story. Their happy family was completed three years later, when they welcomed Adam into the world, joining Janiece’s two daughters, Ilene and Elisa. Rick enjoyed flying planes, driving cars, building models, and performing on stage. He found exceptional joy in serving his community. He was a tried and true Minnesota Vikings fan, and an avid dog lover. He was a proud husband, father, and brother, and a beloved Pappy.

Rick is survived by his wife, Janiece; daughters, Ilene (Jason) Gold, Elisa (Brad) Mack; son, Adam Gratch (Eric Heckenkemper); granddaughters, Zella Mack and Aspen Gold; sister, Barbara “Bobbie” Gratch; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Morton and Adeline Gratch.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at Temple B’nai Israel in Oklahoma City. Burial will follow at Emanuel Hebrew Cemetery. Live streaming is available at https://thetempleokc.shulcloud.com/stream.