Richard Alois Hauswirth

Richard Alois Hauswirth, a beloved father, husband, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024, surrounded by his family. Born in Detroit on February 18, 1931, to Joseph J. Hauswirth and Rose (nee Frydrych) Hauswirth, Richard lived a life rich with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Richard's greatest pride was his family. He met Sophie Cottec in 1948, and their love story began with a chance introduction through Sophie’s brother, Jerry. Their bond deepened, and they married on November 7, 1953, after Richard returned from military service. Together, they welcomed three children—Karen, Melissa, and Kevin—who brought him immense joy. Richard often said his proudest moments were the births of his children. Sophie and Richard enjoyed 54 wonderful years together until her passing in 2007.

A dedicated serviceman, Richard served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era as a Personnel Administrative Specialist, earning the National Defense Service Medal. After serving two years of active duty, he was honorably discharged and transferred to the Army Reserve.

Richard’s professional life was marked by a long tenure at Chrysler. With Chrysler, he worked for 43 years as a machine repair journeyman. His skills extended beyond the workplace—he was known for his ability to fix just about anything. This included a Honda motorcycle he rebuilt with his son, Kevin. Richard would often putz around, looking for anything and everything that needed to be fixed because he knew that he could always get the job done.

In 2009, Richard found a second chance at love when he met Brenda Brill at a family cookout. Their connection was immediate, and they married in November 2011. Brenda brought a new dimension to Richard’s life, including another daughter, Shawn, whom Richard loved as his own. They would have celebrated their thirteenth wedding anniversary in November 2024.

Richard’s passions were as varied as his talents. A dedicated fisherman, he shared his love of the water with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed stamp collecting, radio-controlled airplanes, bowling, hunting, golf, and camping. Music was another joy, with Bob Seger and “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” by The Hollies being particular favorites. He also enjoyed listening to Glen Miller, Elton John’s “Crocodile Rock,” and Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky,” or a really good polka. No matter the type of music, you could always find Richard doing his signature dance move, including the “jump rope.”

Known for his humor and kindness, Richard’s quick wit and sarcastic comments were a hallmark of his personality. His favorite phrase, “Yeah, I drink water… after I run it through my coffee beans,” was a testament to his playful nature. He was a social butterfly, well-liked by all who met him, with a remarkable ability to read people and offer support regardless of personal feelings.

Richard was a man of strong faith, guided by his love for God. He was a hero, a best friend, and a truly kind soul. His laughter, love, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his wife; Brenda Brill-Hauswirth; his children, Karen (Allen) Merritt, Melissa (Andrew) Coburn, and Kevin (Cynthia Lusk-Hauswirth) Hauswirth; his step-daughter, Shawn (Daniel) Shisler; his grandchildren, John (Rachel), Jeremy, Jessica (Rod), Lane, Katelyn, Nathan, and Abi; his great-grandchildren, Adyn, Kloe, and Isabella; his siblings Allen (Shirley) Hauswirth, and Marilyn (Howard) Goodin; his sister-in-law Ruth Hauswirth, and many grand critters. Preceded in death by his first wife, Sophie Hauswirth; brothers Joseph and Robert Hauswirth; sister-in-law Jan Hauswirth; and parents Joseph and Rose Hauswirth.

Visitation for Richard will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm at D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, located at 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, Michigan 48093.

Funeral Service for Richard will take place on Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 11:00 am, also at the funeral home. Visitation on Sunday will begin at 10:30 am until the time of the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to All About Animals, 23451 Pinewood Street Warren, Michigan 48091, in Richard’s memory.