Richard "Ric" John Cooley

A proud U of M fan and a bit of a hippie, Ric brought color, humor, and warmth to those around him. In his earlier years, he enjoyed playing bass guitar, fixing up cars, and spending time fishing. Later in life, he could always be found with a cup of coffee within reach, playing trivia or bingo, and enjoying the simple joys of life and the people around him.

Ric served in the National Guard as a military police officer for six years during the 1970s. His sense of duty and strength remained with him throughout his life. After suffering a stroke, Ric was lovingly cared for by his children for 17 years. He spent 16 of those years at Green Acres of Mason, where he became affectionately known as the “Doorkeeper.” Ric was a familiar and beloved presence - he knew everyone, and everyone knew and loved him in return.

He is survived by his children, Joanna (Robert) Szarka, Megan (Jordan) Miller, and James Cooley; grandchildren, Shyanne Szarka, Kehgan Szarka, and Parker and DJ Miller; siblings, Carole Haley, Kathy (Steve) Lyell, Tom (Billi) Cooley, and Mick (Donna) Cooley; in-laws, Ron Welch and Theresa Cooley; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Phyllis Welch and Ron Cooley; nieces, Jill Barry and Nichole Cooley; and his parents, Henry and Agnes Cooley.

Ric's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at Green Acres, and to the team with Optimal Home Care and Hospice for the compassionate end-of-life care they gave, especially Dr. Hansen and Nurse Betsy.

A funeral service for Ric will take place on Monday, June 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with a one-hour prior visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home Mason Chapel, 621 S Jefferson St., Mason, MI 48854, Pastor John Cox officiating. Following the service, Ric will be laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery, 213 N Jefferson St., Mason, MI 48854.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are James Cooley, Tom Cooley, Robert Szarka, Kehgan Szarka, Shyanne Szarka, and Parker Miller.

In honor of Ric’s easygoing spirit, his family encourages those attending his service to wear their favorite blue jeans.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to the family to assist in funding a headstone for Richard's final resting place.