Richard A. Machek, 83, lifelong resident of Delray Beach, passed away January 26th, 2021. He was the son of Michael & Helen Machek.

In 1958, he married his high school sweetheart Wanda (Davis) Machek.  He began a career in farming gladiolus with Machek Farms & Mazzoni Farms.  Dedicating his time advocating for multiple issues surrounding the rural areas of his community he served on many agricultural, environmental, economic, and healthcare boards and committees. These included being a distinguished trustee of the South Florida Fair as well as being appointed to the South Florida Water Management District Governing Board.  In 2000, Richard was elected to the Florida House of Representatives for District 78 where he served four terms.  In 2010 he was appointed by President Barack Obama's administration as the USDA State Director for Rural Development for Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  He would serve in this position until his retirement in 2016.

Richard was known for many things, but being "Grandad" was his greatest accomplishment of all.  He loved fishing, trying his luck at the lottery, and trips to his family farm in the North Carolina Mountains.  Those who knew him well, knew his true happiness was found gathered around a table of food, surrounded by family and friends.

Survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Wanda, his daughter Carol Machek (Michael), his daughter Kim Unke (Brian), his six granddaughters (Amanda, Joanna, Kathleen, Heather, Brittany, and Jessica) as well as 7 cherished great grandchildren and his dog Chloe.  He also leaves a sister, Rose Sloan (Nick) and 4 nieces.  He is preceded in death by his brother Ronald.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.  Richard will be laid to rest at the Delray Beach Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to the Delray Beach Historical Society Click Here to Donate Online