Longtime West Seattle resident, Tadeusz Victor Molenda, known as "Tad" died peacefully in his home on May 3rd at the age of 90.
Born in Lwow, Poland on January 12th 1916, Tad was the youngest child of Jozef and Wanda Molenda. Tad loved his hometown with its rich history and classic architecture. Unfortunately, his childhood home became a battle over borders at the end of WWII, and he never returned. He was able to visit his parents and surviving sister in the then communist Poland.
Tad was a veteran of WWII serving in the Polish army. He spent two years as a prisoner of war in Russia before joining the RAF in England. After the war, Tad married the love of his life, Irene Joan Rahilly, whom he affectionately called "Sally". Sally was a native of London, England.
While in England, Tad received his degree in Electrical Engineering. After the couple had two sons, the family immigrated to America in 1954 where they had two more sons. The family moved several times as Tad gained better positions with prestigious companies. After the death of his wife in 1966, he moved his family to Seattle. Tad worked for Boeing until 1970. He retired from Seattle City Light in 1993 at the age of 77. He forever adored his wife and never remarried. He spent his retirement volunteering and enjoying the company of his children and grandchildren.
Tad was witty, intelligent, hard working and a gracious father. He raised all four boys on his own and made sure they never forgot the values their mother had instilled in them. He cherished the mountains and the spectacular views of the Northwest. He spent time hiking and walking throughout his life. These activities contributed to him being active and healthy until his final days.
He was preceded in death by his wife Irene, son Robert, parents Jozef and Wanda, and sisters Sophia and Janka. He is survived by sons James Molenda of Bellevue, Nicholas Molenda of Bellingham, and Andrew Molenda of Seattle as well as eleven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
A private family service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in West Seattle.
