Richard Bilnoski was born on December 13, 1947 in New Waverly, Texas and entered the gates of Heaven on July 16, 2022.  He is preceded in death by his father, George Bilnoski, mother, Cecelia Pavlock Bilnoski and infant son, Bryan Thomas Bilnoski.   He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 54 years, Verna Falk Bilnoski.  Also surviving are daughter, Sandy Hooks and husband John of Huntsville and son, Todd Bilnoski of New Waverly.  He had four grandchildren; Riley Hooks (Katie), Hailey Hooks, Brady Hooks, and Hannah Bilnoski.  Richard had seven siblings; sister Frances Venarske of New Waverly, brother Jim Bilnoski of Houston, Liz Patterson (Leon) of Carrollton, Mary Buckner (Jim) of Willis, Dot Buckner of Willis, Donnie Bilnoski of Huntsville and Cindy Pierce (Danny) of Huntsville plus numerous nieces and nephews.

Richard graduated from New Waverly High School in 1965 and soon began working at Conroe Floor Company where he learned many skills that made him a gifted woodworker.  He married Verna shortly after and they started their family.  In 1975, Richard changed careers and began working at Sam Houston State University's Physical Plant and became an HVAC foreman.  After 27 years at the university, he retired and began the life he enjoyed the most.

Richard was the ultimate outdoorsman who loved working sun up to sun down as he enjoyed living off the land. He was an avid gardener, hunter and fisherman. Many people were lucky to share in his bounty whether it was his vegetables or his jerky and sausage making talents.

One of Richard's favorites past times was ranching. He enjoyed raising cattle and baling hay. He looked forward to his daily visits to the feed store to share stories and laughter with friends.

Papa, as he was lovingly known, was a proud father and grandfather that spent quality time and taught everyone values that will last a lifetime. He made sure they understood hard work but enjoyed telling jokes around a campfire, playing dominoes, and helping with Walker County Fair projects.

Richard lived life with equal parts heart, determination and good ol' fashion grit.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 19 from 5:00-7:00p.m. at Heritage Oaks Funeral Home followed by a Rosary at 7:00p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 20 at 11:00a.m. St. Joseph's Catholic Church in New Waverly.

Graveside services will immediately follow the Mass and will be at Shepard Hill Cemetery.

A fellowship lunch will be at St. Joseph's Catholic Church hall after the burial.

Riley Hooks, Brady Hooks, Ignatius Slott, Terry Giese, Bernard Kuznairek, Michael Slott, Steve Gehovak, and Vertis Simmons will serve as pallbearers.