Patrick Joseph Pieters Sr.

Patrick (Rick) Joseph Pieters Sr., age 77, of DeWitt, MI and Satsuma, FL, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025. Born on March 17, 1947, Rick was the son of Albert and Josephine Pieters, and was preceded in death by his parents, his twin sister Patricia (Trish) Turczi, brother Albert Benedict Pieters Jr. (Dick), and nephew Adrian Pieters.

Rick is survived by his beloved brother Mike (Linda) Pieters; his daughter Carey (Tim) Oberlin; his sons Rick Jr. (Kari) and John (Julie) Pieters; and seven adoring grandchildren: Mitch (Christian) and Kelli (Tyler) Combs, Masen, Mariya (Josh), Carson, Henry, and Samuel Pieters. He also leaves behind three great-grandchildren: Hudson, Mac Patrick, and Briar.

Rick was a man who lived his life by the values of his Catholic faith, serving with the Knights of Columbus as a member of Community of St. Jude in Dewitt Michigan, and attended St. Monica in Palatka, Florida, with his family and friends always at the center of his heart. His generosity and spirit were contagious. He was an avid golfer and played on many leagues with his friends at Prairie Creek in DeWitt, cherishing his golf trips and sharing his passion with everyone he encountered. He loved to teach those around him the art of a good swing and often emphasized, “you have to see the club hit the ball.”

Rick was light on his feet as a ballroom and west coast swing dancer, always ready to guide a lady with grace in his arms. He enjoyed teaching kids, grandkids, and anyone willing to learn how to dance, often dancing wherever music was playing. His joyful presence brought people together, and he frequently played cribbage, euchre, 6-pack, or Texas Hold ‘Em, always ready with a five-dollar bill for a friendly or not-so-friendly wager, unless it was getting late, at which time he would always give Carson whatever he had left in chips.

A true road warrior, Rick made countless journeys, driving from Florida to California to visit his grandkids, taking long drives just to share a meal with family, attend countless grandkids sporting events, or spending hours fishing on the beach during Spring Break. He always put family first and never hesitated to be there for those he loved.

Rick’s most special quality was the way he made everyone feel seen and valued. His warm smile, engaging conversations, and adventurous spirit made him a beloved figure in the lives of those who knew him. He was quick with a laugh and known for his signature sayings, like “dumber than dumb” and “I wouldn’t waste my time.” Rick's generous heart and zest for life will be missed by many.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the neighbors of Fisherman Road in Satsuma, FL, for their loving care and support of Rick for many years.

To celebrate Rick’s life and legacy, a viewing will be held from 4-8pm on Tuesday January 14th at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home at 205 E. Washington Street, DeWitt MI. The Rosary will be said at 7:30 PM. A visitation and viewing will be held at 10am followed by a Catholic Mass and funeral service at 11am on Wednesday January 15th at St. Jude Catholic Church at 801 N Bridge Street, DeWitt MI.

In his memory, the family asks that you cherish the time you have with those you love, as Rick did so often.