He was born on July 23, 1946, in Westfalen, Germany to Polish parents-Walenty and Adela Razniak. He graduated from De La Salle High School in Kansas City, Missouri, earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Northwest Missouri State University, a Master of Public Administration from Rockhurst University, and multiple other certifications throughout the years. Richard married his sweetheart Irene Bilyk in July 1968. The couple welcomed three children into their home, Christine, Kathyrne, and Mark. His children remember him as a driven father who encouraged them to work hard and pursue their goals.
Richard had a successful and distinguished career in computer programming and information technology, earning national recognition and awards for his innovative approaches to municipal information systems. He was highly recruited by governmental and private employers throughout the world, but he was always committed to the City of Kansas City. In April 1969, Richard began his career with the city as a programmer and eventually retired as Director of Information Technology. Some of his more prestigious projects include the water billing program, payroll, and human resources programs, automating streetlights, developing the first 911 system, the first GIS system, and helping the city host the 1976 Republican National Convention. Richard helped Kansas City share many of these groundbreaking technologies with other large municipalities across the US, continuing his dedication to public service and efficient and economical technologies. Many who knew him didn’t realize he also worked for the KC Star, the US Army Corp of Engineers, and owned his own real estate company. In 2003, Richard retired early to care for his son Mark who suffered from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Richard is preceded in death by his son, Mark, his parents, and his sister Mary Matheson.
Richard is survived by his wife Irene of the home, his daughters Christine Hueske (Derek) and Kathyrne Harper Razniak, and two grandchildren Ethan Harper and Jessica Harper (Leon Schädlich). He is also survived by his two sisters Sabina Olson and Barbara (Henry) Mendala and multiple nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews, whom he adored.
Flowers may be sent to St. James Parish, Liberty, MO, or donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the American Stroke Association.
The family would like to thank everyone who helped administer care including the Kansas City Fire Department, first responders and EMTs, Liberty Hospital and its staff and chaplains, especially palliative care staff Christy, Kristen, Taelor, Carol, Carmen, and Crystal. The family is especially grateful to Father Mike Roach.
Rosary prayers for Richard will be held Friday, June 23, 2023, from 9:15 AM to 9:30 AM at St James Catholic Church, 309 S Stewart Road, Liberty, MO 64068. A visitation will occur from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Church. Mass of Christian Burial will occur at 10:30 AM at the Church. A committal service will follow Mass at Mt Olivet Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 64138 followed by luncheon at the Church.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcgilleyantiochchapel.com for the Razniak family.
