Richard S Fedelem

Richard S. "Dick" Fedelem’s greatest joy was his family and friends. He passed away peacefully after a brief illness at the age of 88. He was born in Detroit on April 16, 1937, to Stephen and Sally Fedelem and predeceased by sister, MaryAnn (Avoledo), in 2021. Dick is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Dotty Fedelem, with whom he built a lifetime of cherished memories. Dick attended Michigan State University where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as an Educational Leadership degree from Eastern Michigan University. He leaves behind a diverse collection of friends and countless nieces and nephews who adored and looked up to him, benefiting from his wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their potential.

All his life Dick had a strong connection to his faith that guided him throughout his life. He attended Catholic school, was an altar boy at St. Anthony in Detroit, was officer in the Knights of Columbus, and is a current member of The Church of the Incarnation in Sarasota.

He was an admired educator who dedicated his life to shaping young minds, serving for several years as an elementary teacher before spending 29 impactful years as a principal at Fitzgerald Public Schools in Warren, MI. His passion for education was matched only by his unwavering support and encouragement for children, consistently challenging them to strive for their best. Dick’s legacy of kindness, dedication, patience, and the pursuit of excellence will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Dick was a man of varied interests. He and Dotty were avid golfers, members of The Meadows Country Club, and they have special memories golfing with treasured friends at many beautiful courses, especially in Arizona, Hawaii, Colorado, West Virginia, Michigan and Canada. He was especially proud of his two holes-in-one.

His enthusiasm for sports was infectious, especially when it came to his beloved Michigan State Spartans. In high school and college Dick was involved in sports, musical theatre and his love for singing was lifelong.

Dick believed in giving back to his community, dedicating time to charities and supporting organizations that aided children, ensuring those in need had access to essential resources.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 @ 9:30am at Incarnation Catholic Church, 2901 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota. Arrangements are being made for live streaming.

In lieu of flowers if you would like to donate in memory of Dick Fedelem, please consider a charity of your choice or one of the following that were near to Dick’s heart. All Faiths Food Bank, Sarasota or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.