Richard Joseph Ponshair

Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Gertrude (Gase) Ponshair; Wanda (Benette-Hall) Ponshair, his second wife of 24 years; as well as his parents and in-laws. Richard will be lovingly remembered by siblings James (Margaret), Jolynn (Ron); daughter, Kathy (Ponshair) Kwiatkowski, her husband, Paul and their son, Greg (Hannah). As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Richard served proudly in the United States Army for four years. He studied agriculture and graduated from Coopersville High School. Richard was employed at, and retired from, Keeler Brass Co., where he worked for 37 years. Richard enjoyed belonging to Kiwanis Travel Club of Grand Rapids, Allendale Life Long Learners, OK Kiddo Choir, the Allendale and Coopersville Historical Society, the Lumberjacks, and was a proud third degree Knight of Columbus. Richard enjoyed traveling and exploring, but also enjoyed the quaintness of gardening and farming. At one point, he had 108 roses, several Iris’ and Hibiscus'. Richard took daily walks around his neighborhood and liked to fish and feed the birds. Richard had various dogs and cats, but always had cats throughout his life.

A visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2024, with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m., at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville. A funeral Mass will be held 11 a.m. Friday, April 12, with visitation prior from 10-11 a.m., at Holy Redeemer Church, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Interim Hospice. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guest book.