Richard Brendan Scala

Richard graduated from University of Detroit High School and received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from University of Detroit and Master’s in Mathematics from Michigan State University.

Richard taught mathematics at Cal Poly Tech, San Louis Obispo, CA and University of Detroit High School. He also worked for Ashland Oil Company in Kentucky and was a system analyst at the Department of Transportation for the State of Michigan.

Richard was a volunteer at the Meridian Historical Village and Capital Area Literacy Coalition. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and sang in the church choir. Richard had a love for helping others. He also had a passion for music, singing and trains, especially steam engines.

He enjoyed spending time with his pinochle card group. choir members, and his brothers and sisters-in-law. He was a great favorite of nieces and nephews. Richard possessed a dry sense of humor, which he employed when talking about Detroit sports teams and national politics, to the delight of everyone around him. Finally, Richard relished his annual Fourth of July trips to the Upper Peninsula. He loved getting away from it all on hikes in the Porcupine Mountains and Isle Royale.

Preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Eugene Jr. and Michael, Richard is survived by his wife of 33 years, Gretchen Bria Scala and brother, James (Roz) Scala.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Feb. 8 from 6-8 p.m. with a Scripture Service at 7:30 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel, 1730 E. Grand River, East Lansing. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 955 Alton Rd., East Lansing, Friday, Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour before Mass. Rev. Mark Inglot will officiate.

Contributions may be made to University of Detroit High School and Academy, ATTN: Development Dept., 8400 Cambridge Ave., Detroit, MI 48821-1699, St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Choir, 955 Alton Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823 or Greater Lansing Food Bank, PO Box 16224, Lansing, MI 48901.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.