Richard L. Halajcsik, 49, passed away Tuesday, January 17th, 2017, in Hayward, WI.

Rick was born June 18, 1967 in Gary, IN.  He graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry and Biology, later earning his MBA at Rutgers. He pursued many things in his life, one being the lead singer for 'OO Janet' in East Chicago, IN. Rick traveled worldwide as the Sales Director for Clarient, and was instrumental in the medical advances of breast cancer detection. He also formed his own prescription drug company before settling in Oceanside, CA to make his own wine in his home. He won numerous awards, entering his wine in several venues throughout CA.

In 2005, he moved to Hayward, WI to pursue his dream of becoming 'Chief Wino Maker', and purchased a building on Main St., which later became Hookstone Winery. His mascot was a thirsty purple tongued musky with Rick's signature Hawaiian shirt. Wine lovers traveled from all over to taste his award winning wine. He owned Hookstone Winery for over 11 years before his passing. Rick had a larger than life personality and made everyone smile at his sometimes colorful jokes and one-liners. Rick will be sadly missed by everyone who met him, especially his forever pal, "Satchmo" that was always by his side.

Survivors include his parents, Richard and Patsy Halajcsik of Spring Hill, FL; nephew, Ryan Halajcsik and niece Payton Halajcsik both of IN; many relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Edward; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A memorial visitation will be held  at White Funeral Home located at 921 W. 45th Avenue in Griffith will be held on Wednesday February 1, 2017 from 4-7:00 pm

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hayward Humane Society in Hayward , Wisconsin..

For information, please call White Funeral Home at 219-924-4100 or visit us at www.whitefuneralhomeofgriffith.com

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