William ''Dick'' J. Muniga, 81, Avid Hunter and Fisherman

He was born December 16, 1924 in Amherst, Ohio. He was a lifetime resident of Amherst.

Dick served in the US Navy during World War II where he received the American Area Medal, the Victory Medal and the Point System. He was employed as a master industrial pattern maker at Cascade Pattern in Elyria for forty-five years. Dick was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Amherst. He was a member of the Amherst Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie #1442 and the Amherst American Legion Post #118. Dick was an avid hunter, fisherman and enjoyed cooking and gardening, especially flowers. His greatest passion in life was his family.

Survivors include his sons Richard Muniga of Naples, Florida and Gene Muniga of Amherst; his daughters Gayle Castro of Elyria and Mary Meyer of Amherst; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; and his sisters Francis Hodrosky of Lorain.

He was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-five years Elaine Lois Muniga (nee: Reichert) on March 2, 2006; by his grandson Caleb Muniga in 1996; by his brothers Pete Muniga and Hank Muniga; by his sisters Carrie Shullick, Marcella Kenzik and Wanda Showalter; and by his parents Michael and Catherine Muniga (nee: Skura).

Friends may call Thursday, August 17, 2006 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Hempel Funeral Home, 373 Cleveland Avenue, Amherst. Closing prayers will be held Friday, August 18, 2006 at 9:30 a.m. from the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church; 200 St. Joseph Drive, Amherst, Ohio. The Amherst Veteran’s Military Honor Guard will perform honors. The Rev. Fr. Lawrence Martello, pastor, will officiate. Burial will be in Crownhill Cemetery, Amherst.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to CHP Regional Foundation/New Life Hospice, 3700 Kolbe Road, Lorain, Ohio 44053.