Born in Syracuse, NY in 1936, Richard was the third child of parents who lived through the Great Depression. While a student at Michigan State University, Richard was seated alphabetically next to Janet Wellman. The two married after graduation and celebrated their 57th anniversary this summer.
Richard would admit to being an average and indifferent student in grade school, but he ultimately found his life’s work in and around the classroom. He completed both an undergraduate degree in History and a Masters degree in Educational Administration at Michigan State University.
He first taught United States history to high school students in Waterford, MI. After some time in the classroom, Richard began a career in public school administration that would last 30 years. In the early 1970s, he was the first principal at the newly constructed Lawton (MI) Senior High School, built in the then-revolutionary “open classroom” style with movable walls and flexible teaching spaces. He then spent 25 years with Davison Community Schools, retiring in 2001. During his time with the district, Weaver served as assistant principal at Davison High School, director of Vocational Education, principal of Thompson Elementary School, and assistant principal at Hahn Intermediate School.
Richard was an ardent supporter of public education, and he believed every student should feel supported and encouraged in the classroom. His influence on thousands of young people leaves a legacy to which Richard would likely demur, insisting rather, that he was “just doing his job”.
In retirement, Richard and wife Janet moved to Midland, where he became involved with the Midland Center for the Arts and put his home-maintenance talents to use as a set builder for community theater. The Weavers were also able to spend more time with family and friends at their Sweetwater Cottage in Harrisville, and many happy memories were made on the shores of Lake Huron. In addition to an interest in American history, Richard had a life-long passion for classical music and could name the composer and title of most any piece playing on one of his favorite classical radio stations.
Richard will be missed by his children, Holly (Ron) Nachtigal of Linden and David Weaver of Traverse City. Richard is also survived by wife Janet, brother Robert, and grandsons Jimmy and Tommy. He was preceded in death by parents Robert and Ruth (Walton) Weaver, and sister Ruth. The family is grateful to the staff at Vicinia Gardens of Fenton and The Care Team Hospice for the kind and respectful care given to Richard and his family over the last two years. And to family friends Jim and Jean Kinney, thank you for your support and unwavering friendship.
A family memorial celebration is planned for a later date.
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