WEBSTER –Walter P. “Herbie” Motyka, 70, of 26 Lake Parkway, died Tuesday, Dec. 27, in St. Vincent Hospital.
He leaves his wife of 46 years, Barbara J. (Swierzbin) Motyka; a daughter, Deborah M. Rosati and her husband Michael of Melrose; a son, Robert A. Motyka and his wife Patricia of Lunenburg; 4 brothers, Edward Motyka of Norwood, Charles Motyka of Webster, Stanley Motyka of Southbridge, and Deacon Peter Motyka of Dudley; 4 grandchildren, Marcus, Alex, Daniel and Katie; many nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his brothers Thomas and Joseph.
He was born in Webster, one of the seven sons of Stanley and Mary (Pietruszka) Motyka, and lived here all his life. He graduated from Bartlett High School, where he was a trumpeter in the school band. He also took evening classes at Nichols College in Dudley.
Mr. Motyka was a textile colorist at Cranston Print Works Company for 42 years, retiring in 2000.
He was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Basilica, where he served as a eucharistic minister and was a volunteer for the church festivals. On special occasions, he would play the trumpet for solemn feasts at the basilica.
Music made up a significant part of his life. In his youth, he played with the Four Sharps Orchestra and the Emeralds Orchestra. He was a trumpeter, conductor, and former secretary of the Pulaski Brass Band. He was once a member of the Webster Arts Council. He chaired the committee that oversaw the building of the bandstand on the town common.
The funeral will be held Saturday, Dec. 31, from the Sitkowski & Malboeuf Funeral Home, 340 School St., with a Mass at 11:30 AM in St. Joseph Basilica, 53 Whitcomb St. Burial will be in St. Joseph Garden of Peace. Calling hours are from 5:00 to 8:00 PM Friday, Dec. 30, in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Friends of St. Joseph School Fund, 53 Whitcomb St., Webster, MA 01570