Richard "Dick" Stephen Rakovich

Richard Stephen “Dick” Rakovich, 79, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran and friend, passed away on August 30, 2026.

Born November 3, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, Dick was the eldest of three sons born to Joseph and Rosemarie Rakovich. He attended Notre Dame High School in Detroit and Wayne State University before proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War, where he was an aircraft engineer.

Following his military service, Dick served his community through public service and later built a successful career as a financial advisor, becoming a trusted advisor and mentor to many throughout his career.

Dick had a lifelong love of adventure. He was an accomplished pilot who earned his commercial pilot’s license as well as his captain’s license. He enjoyed flying, boating, deep-sea fishing, motorcycles and golf.

Dick and his beloved wife, Jennifer, were residents of Seabrook Island, South Carolina, for nearly 30 years, where they enjoyed many wonderful years on the water and with friends. They later moved to Lakewood Ranch, Florida, to be closer to their daughter Alyssa, her husband Paul, and their grandson James.

Dick was devoted to his family, his faith and his community. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Alyssa, and her husband, Paul; and his cherished grandson, James; along with his extended family and many friends.

A small family remembrance will be held in Sarasota, Florida, on Thursday, October 8, at 11 AM at Robert Toale & Sons Palms Memorial Cemetery, 170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34232.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Salvation Army in Dick’s memory.

Dick will be remembered for his service to his country, his adventurous spirit, his devotion to his family and the many lives he touched throughout an extraordinary life.