During his school years he resided in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. After graduating from Glenbard High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard.
He later moved to the Saugatuck/Holland area where he worked for Tower Marine, Barclay Marine and later Herman Miller as a Photographic Archivist.
He is survived by his wife Mary Beth; his children and step-children: Don, Laurel, Tina, Michael & Melanie; his sister Nancy Jackson; his brother Jack Rutledge, and his grandchildren Claire, Solaya and Royce as well as many nieces and nephews.
He loved to tell stories about his time at sea and crewing sailboats on Lake Michigan. Richard had a kind, gentle heart and was always willing to help others. His sense of humor was a gift to those who knew him and will always be remembered.
A Memorial Gathering will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday August 12, 2022 at Reyers North Valley Chapel with full military honors being rendered at 4:00 p.m.
A Christian funeral service will be held on Saturday August 13, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers donations will be gratefully accepted at Rest Haven Homes or Spectrum Health Hospice.
