Richard Clifford "Dick" Mankel

Richard Clifford "Dick" Mankel, age 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 22, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on August 5, 1944, in Grand Rapids, Dick left behind a legacy of service, skill, and unwavering commitment to his family.

Family was at the heart of everything Dick did. For 54 years he was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Dianne, with whom he shared a lifetime of laughter, love, and partnership. Together, they raised five children: Rick, Becky, Ruth, Robin, and Rosie. As a father, Dick was steady, dependable, and always ready with guidance or a gentle tease to bring a smile. His pride in his children was boundless and evident in every story he told.

Nothing brought Dick more joy than spending time with his grandchildren. Whether teaching them how to fix something, sneaking them sweets, singing a tune, or simply sharing a story (or nap), he was a constant, loving presence in their lives. His role as "Grandpa/Pop-Pop" was one he cherished deeply.

He was proud to celebrate his Dutch family heritage, while also embracing Dianne’s love of Celtic music and culture. The two of them could often be found enjoying Irish festivals in Milwaukee and Muskegon. They even named their fifth-wheel camper The Irish Dutchman in his honor. Dick and Dianne loved traveling together, including overseas trips to Ireland and the Netherlands, as well as camper trips throughout the U.S.

Dick served his country with honor in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, with deployments to both Vietnam and Guam. His time in the service shaped his values of hard work, discipline, and quiet perseverance—principles he carried into every aspect of his life, especially in how he cared for and supported his family.

After his time in the Air Force, Dick worked for over 40 years as a journeyman electrician for Reynolds Metals, General Motors, Keebler, and Steelcase. With his mechanical aptitude and natural problem-solving skills, Dick could fix just about anything—and often did. Always willing to serve, friends and family members knew they could count on him for help, advice, or a quick repair (usually accompanied by a joke and a wry smile). Those who knew him best remember not only his talents but also the joy he brought into their lives.

A faithful friend, Dick treasured his afternoons spent with “the barbershop boys,” a tradition he kept until the final weeks of his life. Even his grandchildren joined the group occasionally, for “just one doughnut.” Over the years their meeting places changed, but the rousing conversations and laughter stayed the same.

Dick was preceded in death by his mother, Cecilia Mankel (Okhuysen); father, LeVern Mankel; brothers, Gerard and Patrick Mankel; and in-laws, William Feutz, Rosemary Mankel, Michael Verlin, Laurie Dunning, and Mary Stratton. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Dianne; children, Richard Mankel (Kimberly), Rebecca Osborn (Robert), Ruthanne High (Joseph), Robin Mankel (Donald Robinaugh), and Rosanne Forquer (Ty); grandchildren, Robert, Kenneth, James, Kelsey, Landon, Karina, Hadley, and Aidan; siblings and in-laws, Kenneth Mankel (Mary), Margaret Feutz, Thomas Verlin (Debbie), Lisa Johns (Mark), Patrick Dunning, and James Stratton; and many nieces and nephews who treasured their time with “Uncle Dick.”

A visitation will be held at Reyers North Valley Chapel on Friday, October 17th from 4pm to 7pm with a Rosary at 6pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Jude Catholic Church on Saturday, October 18th at 11am with a visitation one hour prior. A graveside service will follow at St Patrick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Guitars for Vets.

Though he may be gone, the love and laughter he brought into his family’s lives will live on for generations. May the memory of Dick Mankel bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.