Dale A. Richardson

Dale A. Richardson, 65 of Gaylord, passed away at home on Friday, September 18, 2015. Born in Royal Oak on December 21, 1949, Dale was the son of Raymond H. and Margaret M. (Desmarais) Richardson.

Dale grew up in Royal Oak and graduated from high school in 1968. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a radio operator from 1968-1970 including a tour in Vietnam where he received the Bronze Star and three Purple Heart medals.

Dale loved music, especially playing drums. For several years he toured with The Eagles as their drum technician. Always a musician at heart, he worked in a number of other jobs throughout his life.

About 20 years ago he settled in Gaylord, where volunteering became his passion. Area organizations could always count on Dale to lend a hand in the community. Dale was honored twice as Gaylord’s volunteer of the year from RSVP. He was an active member of Vietnam Veterans Against the War and Veterans for Peace.

He is survived by his wife, Terri, whom he married on August 1, 2011. Also surviving are children, Richard West of Grand Rapids, John Kozlowicz of Allegan and Toni Harris of Grand Rapids; a grandson, Michael (Desiree) West and great grandchildren, Angel, Alexandria, Cheryl and Serenity; sisters, Joanne (Charles) Fleckenstein of Merriam, KS, Debbie Couture of Overland Park, KS and Joyce Amos of Warren as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Rand and a stepson, Robert West.

A memorial gathering and celebration of Dale’s life will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, October 3, 2015 at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service where family will visit with friends beginning at 1:00 PM. To honor Dale, please dress casually and comfortably. Your favorite tie-dyed or Rock & Roll attire is encouraged.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com