Robert C. Raczynski, 92, of Washington, DC, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at his residence. He was the devoted husband of Grazyna J. Raczynski, with whom he shared over 30 years of love, partnership, and laughter.
Born on March 13, 1933, in Warsaw, Poland, Robert was the son of the late Leszek M. and Harriet (Skarzynski) Raczynski. A survivor of the Occupation during World War II, he emigrated to the United States in 1947, carrying with him a resilience and perspective that would shape the rest of his life.
Robert's passion for learning and innovation led him to excel academically. He graduated from Don Bosco Preparatory School and went on to earn a degree in Engineering from Manhattan College. He later pursued a Master’s in Computer Science from George Washington University, a testament to his lifelong curiosity and commitment to progress.
His professional career began with the U.S. Navy as a civil engineer. His dedication and sense of duty led him to volunteer during the Vietnam War, where he lent his expertise to the U.S. State Department. Robert’s engineering work took him across the globe, including key assignments overseeing U.S. embassy construction in India and Indonesia. He also played a pivotal role in the development of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Later, at the U.S. Department of Energy, Robert contributed to nuclear engineering programs for over 25 years, retiring at the remarkable age of 82.
"Man of All Seasons," Robert navigated a life marked by early hardship with grace and optimism, emerging as a man of faith, intellect, and warmth. He embraced a rich array of interests: he loved art, horseback riding, crafting homemade cherry cordial, and was widely celebrated for his legendary rum cake. Robert’s talent for storytelling and his deep love for America infused every gathering with meaning, humor, and heart.
Robert leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, generosity, and quiet strength. He touched the lives of many and will be profoundly missed by all who had the joy of knowing him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 13, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 18230 Barnesville Road, Barnesville, MD. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) or the Dominican House of Studies (dhs.edu).
May his memory be a blessing, and may he rest in eternal peace.
Mass
Friday, June 13, 2025
11:00 AM
St. Mary's Catholic Church
18230 Barnesville Rd
Barnesville, MD 20838
Graveside
Friday, June 13, 2025
Following Mass
St. Mary's Catholic Church
18230 Barnesville Rd
Barnesville, MD 20838
From: Cynthia Rucker
I’m heartbroken hearing of Robert’s passing this morning. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with you, Grazyna. Sending comfort and compassion to all family and friends. Robert was an absolute blessing in my life as well as my Family. The Wooden’s so enjoyed his company at the farm with his beloved horse. Grazyna, you were always there as well! So supportive and enthusiastic! He adored riding and being about the Countryside with his trusty steed ! Our visits together are memories I hold deep in my heart. Prayers, love and light my Dear Friend. Fly now, into the heavens.
From: Renee Namakau Ombaba
Dear Mrs. Raczynski and Family, On behalf of the entire NamSan team, Anderson and Namakau, we extend our heartfelt condolences to you during this deeply difficult time. It was truly an honor and privilege for us to support your family during Mr. Raczynski's final days. Witnessing your profound love and care for your beloved husband of 30 years profoundly touched us and reflected the wonderful, loving person Mr. Raczynski was. We sincerely hope you find comfort in knowing that his warmth and kindness were evident to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. We encourage family and friends to share your most beloved memories or offer words of sympathy here, creating a space of comfort, remembrance, and support for Mrs. Raczynski and all who loved Mr. Raczynski. With deepest sympathy and continued support, The NamSan Team(Anderson and Namakau)
From: The Hilton Family
Our deepest condolences to your family.
From: Xavier & Megan Puslowski
Robert was an enormous part of my husband’s family, serving as his brother’s Godfather and his father’s close friend since high school. We cherish the memories, are grateful for the influence on us, and know he will never be forgotten. All of our prayers and sympathy go to Grazyna, and the many people who mourn him.
From: Mike&Teri Sweatman
Bob was such a wonderful faith filled gentleman. We met him through our children. They met Bob and Grazyna while attending Mass in Washington DC and a familial relationship occurred and it has lasted for 18 years. Bob was loved by our family and we loved visiting with him and Grazyna when we’re were with our children. Many glasses of red wine over the years toasting our children and grandchildren. He loved us all, even our dogs, and we loved him. You will be missed Bob and remembered as a tremendous human being. Rest in Peace