Richard Lee Krajec, MD., 72 of Ashtabula, Ohio, went to be with the Lord on February 6, 2017. He died peacefully with his loving family at his side.  Born in Ohio, he was the son of Dr. Andrew and Mary (Breznin) Krajec.

Richard graduated from Edwards County (Illinois) High School in 1963. He served in the Peace Corps before serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois, and a Masters in Hospital Administration from Northwestern University, then completed his medical degree from Loyola University of Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine.

On September 9, 1972, Richard married Nancy (Davis); they were blessed to share over 44 years together. He was a loving husband, father, and physician. He loved spending time with his family and traveling both near and far. In addition to Peace Corps, he volunteered with an international health group taking medical supplies to Nepal, Tibet and China, and the Rainforest Health Project to Peru.

Richard was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church. A man of great faith, he served the Lord in many capacities. Rich was an active member of his community and enjoyed serving the Ashtabula area as a Family Physician for over 30 years at the Ashtabula Clinic and Ashtabula County Medical Center. He was Medical Director for Ashtabula County Hospice, later Hospice of the Western Reserve, for many years.

Richard was very interested in other cultures and places. He had a great yearning to travel and was happy to take his family to experience these to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world. He was especially glad they got to meet his extended Slovakian family and explore Nizamabad, India where he served the Peace Corps. Had his health permitted during retirement, he would have traveled more, designed and installed gardens around his home, while continuing to be an active member of Messiah Lutheran Church.

Richard is survived by his wife Nancy, three daughters, Anastasia (Kathy Macias) Krajec of Denver, CO, Karina Krajec of Erbil, Iraq, and Tatiana Krajec of Cleveland Heights, OH, and four brothers, Andrew, William, Robert, and Douglas, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Friday, February 10th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Messiah Lutheran Church. A Memorial service will be held Saturday, February 11th at 11:00 AM at Messiah Lutheran Church, 615 W. Prospect Ave. Ashtabula with Pastor Michael Meranda.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Messiah Lutheran Church Foundation, 615 W. Prospect Rd., Ashtabula, OH 44004 or to The American Horticultural Society, 7931 E. Boulevard Dr., Alexandria, VA 22380.  The Ashtabula Home of Fleming & Billman Funeral Directors and Crematory, 526 W. Prospect Rd., Ashtabula, is honored to serve the Richard Krajec family.  Visit fleming-billman.com to view obituary, express condolences or light a candle.

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