Obituary of Richard Daniels

May 1, 1933 - April 29, 2020

Richard F.  Daniels.  Age 86 of Riverview.  Formerly of Southgate.

Beloved husband of the late Mary Daniels. Loving father of Rick (Becky) Daniels, David (Donna) Daniels, Dawn (Roger) Roels and Scott (Donald Dollar) Daniels.  Dear brother of Tom (Donna) Daniels.

Also survived by eleven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Private family services to be held.

FAMILY TRIBUTE

“You have shown me the way of life. And you will fill me with the joy of your presence.” Acts 2:28 This verse seems to embody the life and spirit of Richard. He lived his life with much joy and faithfulness. 

Richard grew up in Lincoln Park and graduated from Lincoln Park High School in 1951. He attended the University of Detroit for two years after which he went into the army for two years. He was honorably discharged earning the rank of staff sergeant. 

Richard worked as a hairdresser for a short time, which is fitting as he has always been known for his amazing head of thick, white hair! He also worked at Wolverine Aluminum in Lincoln Park in the graphic arts department, before starting his own printing company, Over-Flo printing in Lincoln Park. 

Dick and Mary were married April 23, 1960. He was a faithful, devoted and loving husband, caring for Mary tirelessly through her extended illness. He was a wonderful, fun-loving father spending much time with his children, creating ice rinks in the backyard in the winter for them, coaching many of their sports teams including baseball and hockey. He also started the Girls Youth Hockey program in Southgate of which his daughter, Dawn, proudly took part. 

He was an avid bowler, along with Mary, in their younger years.  He loved to dance and they were a beautiful, talented couple on the dance floor.  Dad was a hard worker and great handyman, always busy with a project around the house or at their cottage in Irish Hills.  He loved fishing and pontoon boating and welcoming many to enjoy the lake and cottage every summer. 

Richard was active for many years in both Kiwanis and Knights of Columbus, rising to a 4th degree Knight. He was very faithful, spending much time in prayer and was active at St Pius Church. He served as a Eucharistic Minister for many years, helped with funeral luncheons and various church activities, throughout the years. 

Dad absolutely treasured being a grandpa. He enjoyed watching the babies grow up and attending a countless number of his grandchildren’s sporting events concerts, school functions, as well as every one of their birthday parties, graduations and celebrations. Family meant so much to him. He would set up the most elaborate Easter egg hunts through the years, creating some of the kids’ most special memories. The summers at the cottage will be remembered always as a special part of their growing up years. 

He was never without his camera, capturing life’s joyful moments and documenting it all in so many photo albums that he loved to proudly show off.  Dad kept busy during retirement and he spent many hours reading and working on puzzles. 

He was kind, smart, funny and warmly welcomed everyone with his smile and enthusiasm. He was always happy to meet new people and was always genuinely interested in listening to and learning about others. Richard was extremely generous with his time and resources, always ready to help others in any way. 

We will miss his wise advice and perspective on life. But we will most especially miss his laughter and his hugs. We take comfort in knowing he rests with Mom, in God’s glory, as His devoted and faithful servant. 

We love you, Dad and Grandpa.