Henryk was born in Bytom, Poland on Nov. 24th, 1952.  Before starting a family, Henryk played for the local soccer program, Polonia Bytom, then went on to a career as a coal miner.

In 1974, Henryk married Urszula Lampa in Bytom, Poland.  They had two boys, Marcin and Tomasz.  

Like many courageous Poles living in Seattle today, Henryk was part of the Solidarity movement, a free-trade union that became a social movement fighting for rights in Poland against the struggles of communism.  

Henryk would eventually settle his wife and two boys in Seattle, WA in 1983.  

There was very little Henryk would not do or try, but most notedly, he loved coaching soccer and helping others.  Henryk spent countless weekends traveling to soccer games with his sons. He eventually got more involved coaching both boys and their teams.  Henryk was passionate about the game of soccer and had a special touch when spreading his knowledge to kids and other coaches.  

Henryk was always willing to help someone in need, especially those from the Polish community.  He lent a helping hand to those in need, but also searched for ways he could provide more for his family, often working two jobs. Henryk was a master painter... using no painter's tape, he could paint a room and walk away with no paint on his fingers.

When people met Henryk, he was often described as having a gentle soul, great smile, endless energy and being the giver of the most meaningful hugs.   

Henryk was proud of his heritage and what it meant to fight for one's beliefs.  He was selfless when it came to taking care of his family, sacrificing so much to give them a better life.  

A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Henryk will be dearly missed, but forever in our hearts.