Born August 17, 1929 to Anthony John and Ena (Green) Betcher in Bunker Hill, Michigan. Richard enjoyed his childhood on the farm with his parents, brothers and sisters. He was a good student and played football and baseball, playing in numerous conference championships. Upon graduation from Mason High School, Richard hauled ice for Lansing Ice & Fuel. He began working at Fisher Body in 1948 before being drafted by the U.S. Army during the Korean War. As a Staff Sargent and Tank Commander Richard’s platoon was ordered to Germany, where he learned to speak a bit of German. Returning home Dick returned to Fisher Body, married and started his family. As children our father coached youth baseball and football, made snowmen and snow forts, went sledding, kite flying, taught us how to ride a bike; took us fishing, to parades, sporting events, reunions, family church and more. Dick was involved with Mason’s Centennial Celebration in 1965. He enjoyed snowmobile and motorcycle riding, organizing a Rough Riding Poker Run for several years in Mason. Dick pheasant hunted and had a dead eye shot. He played golf as well. Retiring after 30 years, Dick stayed busy farming at his brother-in-laws, playing bingo, dancing, coaching his daughter’s women’s softball team, auctions, bottle and antique furniture collecting, bowling, horseshoes, and playing cards. A skilled carpenter Dick helped family build homes, expand homes and Felt Plains Church. Using his talent Dick professionally repaired and restored antique furniture. He could also fix anything with a motor. Dad was a NASCAR fan with his daughter both cheering for the same driver. Our father was an avid fan of Michigan football first attending Michigan Stadium in the 1940’s. Dad’s love was for his family. Our father expressed his love by his actions. He loved being a Dad, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa. Dad was generous. Dad loved Christmas. Usually the first to arrive, Grandpa was at our school functions, games, graduations, open houses, weddings, birthdays and homes. In his remaining days his great grandchildren brought a light to his eyes and expression to great grandpa’s face. We are all grateful for our father.
Dad you will be missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Kenneth Betcher and E.J. Betcher; and grandson,Jason Betcher; nephew, Kenny.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his daughter; Dawn (Dennis) Craddock; sons, Douglas (Beth) Betcher, Dean Betcher; grandchildren, Steven (Jennifer) Betcher, Chad (Abby) Betcher, Angie (Kent) Wood, Rachel McGill, Dylan Betcher; brother, Robert (Mearl) Betcher; sisters, Joyce (Norm) Rector, Donna Hile, Melody (Colin) Curtis; 11 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, March 1, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 621 S. Jefferson St., Mason, MI 48854 with Reverend Stephen Ezop officiating. Interment will follow at Felt Plains Cemetery, Leslie, MI with military honors. The family willreceive friends on Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers those desiring may make contributions to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1210 W. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48915. The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Mason. Memories and on-line condolences may be shared with the family at www.grbdmason.com
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