Richard "Rick" D Westman

He is preceded in death by his parents Richard H. and Myrtle (Loewe) Westman.

Rick is survived by his wife of 54 years Merry Ellen (Bean) Westman, sister Kathy (Westman) Figler, son Geoff and Carrie (Jarosch) and their children Lauren (with her fiancée Tyler), Matthew, Jacob and Meghan. Daughter Courtney (Westman) and Martin Suchor and their children Grace, Martin and Bennett. Numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and his dog, Charlie.

Rick was born in Chicago, Illinois and moved to Michigan as boy, first to Grand Junction and later to Grand Rapids. He was a 1961 graduate of Union High School. Rick received his BS from Western Michigan University and his MS from the University of Michigan and remained a lifelong fan of the Wolverines. While at Western Michigan, he met his wife, Merry Ellen Bean.

He taught science classes at Rockford Middle School and Northview High School where he was the chair of the science department. After teaching for 13 years, he began a 28 year career in sales and safety with Haviland Products. He retired as the Director of Safety and Compliance in 2008. Rick was a dedicated volunteer at Frederik Meijer Gardens, where he filled many roles including plant care, tram driver and narrator and gift shop clerk.

He was a member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church where he was an usher and was instrumental in the growth and expansion of the church building. Rick was a founding member of Men of God, an interdenominational bible study and volunteer group.

Rick was passionate about enthusiastically supporting his grandchildren in their athletic, academic and artistic pursuits. He enjoyed reading and encouraged his children and grandchildren’s love of reading by gifting books to them each Christmas.

Rick’s hobbies included fishing, golf, gardening, growing orchids, wildlife and camping. He also wrote a quarterly gardening newsletter for the residents of the Treemont condominium development.

Above all else, Rick will be remembered for his unwavering love of his family and a strong faith in God that has guided his life.

Rick’s family will hold a celebration of his life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Richard's memory may be made to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 US, https://www.meijergardens.org/donate/.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.reyersnorthvalleychapel.com for the Westman family.