Richard L. ‘Dedo’ Menard

He was born on Feb. 17, 1948, in Escanaba, son of David J. and Elsie O. (Fabry) Menard. Richard graduated from Escanaba High School in 1967 and also attended Bay College.

Following graduation from Escanaba High School and a brief stint with the Escanaba Concrete Company, Richard enlisted in the United States Army and served a tour in Vietnam. He earned a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals, two Overseas Bars and a Marksman’s Badge. His rank at discharge in 1968 was Specialist 4.

Richard also attended Bay de Noc Community College furthering his education in welding and automotive technology.

Richard began working at Mead Paper in 1969 and worked for 35 years before his retirement. His favorite thing to do every Saturday morning was heading out to salvage at Mead.

On May 28, 1970, Richard married Sheila M. Kolich in Escanaba. She preceded him in death on Dec. 26, 1999.

He loved working on automobiles, restoring two antique cars which consumed many hours of his time. In his younger years, Richard played hockey for Barron’s Bar. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with family and friends.

Among survivors include his two children, Tanisha (Eric) Harried of Cottage Grove, Wis., and Jesse (Melissa Asselin) Menard of Escanaba; grandchildren, Jack and Jaret LeMire and Whitney Harried; long-time partner, Shelly LaChapelle of Bark River; two brothers, Duane Menard of Cornell and Norman (Robin) Menard of Wauwatosa, Wis.; brothers-and sisters-in-law, Marcia (Paul) Neumeier and Esther “Susie” (Doug) LaLonde, both of Gladstone, Kimberly (Michael) Venne of DeWitt, Mich., Dan (Debbie Koster) Kolich, Frank Kolich, Jeff Kolich, Joe (Diana Seymour) Kolich all of Escanaba; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Sheila; Richard was preceded in death by an infant son, Roger Menard and daughter, Annelise “Annie” Menard.

Visitation will be on Thursday, Feb. 16, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home in Escanaba. The Delta County Veterans Council will have military rites at 5 p.m.

Burial will take place in Gardens of Rest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are respectfully requested to be directed to his family. A fund will be established to assist with the college education of his grandchildren.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the Menard family.