Richard J. VanAkker

Richard passed away suddenly on Thursday, October 17, 2024 due to a fall he sustained two days prior. He was 91 years old and was born at his grandparents' home in West Branch, MI on September 10, 1933. 

Richard attended Bay City Handy High School where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Janet M. Valaed. They both graduated in 1951. After graduating from high school, he attended and graduated from Bay City Junior College. Shortly after graduation from junior college, he began working for Bay City Bank & Trust. He stayed with the Bank through two name changes & finally retired from the Chemical Bank after 47 years of service. During his time at the Bank, he was involved in many organizations including the Optimist Club the Noon Rotary Club & the Bay City YMCA where he served as President of each. He was also a member of the Bay Medical Foundation, the Osthelder Foundation, and the Bay City Elks Club. Dick enjoyed golfing, taking trips to West Branch & Traverse City, and taking care of his yard. 

Surviving family members are four children: Bethany (VanAkker) Schaeffer her partner, Rowland Warfle, Richard VanAkker (Beth), Lynette VanAkker & Ashley VanAkker. His grandchildren: Joshua VanAkker, Katelyn VanAkker-Mendez (José), Cuyler VanAkker, Bella VanAkker, & Zara VanAkker. Two great-grandchildren: Gage Schaeffer & Evangeline Mendez. Preceding him in death were his parents, Lawrence & Marjorie VanAkker, his granddaughter Angela Schaeffer, and his wife Janet VanAkker, whom he was married to for 68 years 

There will be a Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at North Euclid Church of God. Officiating will be Pastor Chris Slosser. Friends may visit with family on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m., as Richard has elected to be cremated. In lieu of flowers, Richard asks that you donate to Bay Area Community Foundation or to The North Euclid Church of God.