Obituary
Walter T. “Trax” Pietrzak, 83, of West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, also affectionately known as Władzu, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on Monday, October 20, 2025. Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, to Stanley and Jane (Zinkiewicz) Pietrzak, he embodied the values of his Midwestern roots—humility, hard work, and kindness toward others.
Predeceased by his first wife, Grace (Donahue) Pietrzak, with whom he raised four children—Donna, Wally, Nancy, and Amy—he later found companionship with Virginia (DeNisi) Pietrzak, and together they shared many happy years. Cherished grandfather of Tessa, Alexandra, Michael, Marc, Grace, Alexa, Scott, Rose and Wally, Jr. and great-grandfather of Lillian and James. Dear brother of Peter Pietrzak, Elizabeth Sherman, Mary Loscko and the late Paul and Stanley Pietzak, Jr.
He is survived by a large and loving family of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he took great pride in and cherished spending time with. He delighted in their accomplishments and held each one close in his heart.
It was Walter’s service in the Army that first brought him to Massachusetts and while stationed at Fort Devens, he would meet Grace Donahue at a dance beginning their romance. Walter dedicated much of his professional life to Polaroid, where he worked for many years. First assigned to New Bedford, then settling in Medford to raise their family. His career reflected a deep commitment to craftsmanship, loyalty, and pride in being part of a company that helped define an era of photography and technology. He valued the friendships he made and the sense of purpose his work provided.
In retirement, Walter found joy in simple pleasures and staying active — gardening, tinkering with home improvement projects, and spending time with family. He also enjoyed traveling and time spent between New Hampshire and warmer temperatures in North Carolina. He will be remembered for his quiet kindness, steady presence, and the care he showed to everyone around him.
Calling Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Sunday, October 26th from 3:00PM to 5:00PM. A Funeral Procession will begin from the funeral home on Monday at 9:00AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Catherine of Genoa Church, Somerville at 10:00AM. Relatives and friends invited to attend.
A private burial will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery, Derry, New Hampshire.