Born on December 5, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to Chester and Evelyn Grzyb, Rich was raised in Detroit, where he graduated from Pershing High School. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War on the USS Whet Stone, spending time stationed in Vietnam, a chapter of his life he always held with great pride. Rich’s final rank was FA (E-2) Fireman Apprentice and received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
After returning home, Rich began his career as a journeyman tool and die maker at General Dynamics before joining Chrysler Engine Plant, where he retired in June of 2007. Through years of hard work and dedication, he advanced into a management position. He took tremendous pride in helping build military tanks and often spoke with satisfaction about the work he accomplished there until his retirement.
Rich shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Gemma, until her passing on January 14, 2019. Together they built a loving family, and he remained a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who was always looking out for those he loved. He had a warm heart, a larger-than-life personality, and an unforgettable sense of humor. A natural jokester, Rich loved making people laugh and brightening the day of everyone around him.
An avid outdoorsman, Rich found great joy in hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. He was an accomplished archer and sharpshooter with a bow and arrow, participated in trap leagues, and was an enthusiastic deer hunter. In his younger years, he enjoyed building remote-control airplanes, woodworking, and crafted a detailed model boat. Some of his favorite memories were made during trips to Seney, Michigan and throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He also looked forward to visits to Turtle Creek Casino in Traverse City.
Rich loved good food and enjoyed cooking for family and friends. A true “meat and potatoes” kind of guy, he was especially known for making the best mashed potatoes, a meal that brought everyone together around the table.
Rich is survived by his loving children, Dale (Crystal) Grzyb, Shawn Grzyb, and Breanne (Chris) Holden; his cherished grandchildren, Jack Robert Thomas and Tyler Scott Sample; his siblings, Barb Cholewa and Don Grzyb; his nephew, Jeff Grzyb, Ken, Larry, Jerry, and Don; and his nieces, Dawn, Tara, and Janice.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gemma Grzyb, his brother-in-law, Al Cholewa, his nephew Michael and Niece Donna.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Rich’s life during visitation from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM, with a family-led sharing of memories service at 5:00 PM, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Township, Michigan 48038.
