Richard Lee DeLano

06/14/1935

04/18/2022

Memorial Contributions

 Grand Rapids Community Foundation

 185 Oakes St SW

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Richard “Rich” Lee DeLano, age 86 of East Grand Rapids passed away April 18, 2022, after an extended illness. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia, daughter Denise Marie DeLano; infant brother, Norman; sisters; Shirley Hall and Sandy Stith. He is survived by sons Michael DeLano (Marcia); Dennis DeLano-Taylor (Merritt); grandchild Patrick; brother Franklin (Marjorie); half sister Mary Ann (Arthur) Shafer and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Born June 14, 1935, in White Pigeon, Michigan to Gladys and Harold DeLano, the family relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan. Richard met his future wife, Patricia at a dance hall in Grand Rapids. They resided primarily in East Grand Rapids during their 54 years of marriage where they raised their family.

Richard didn’t often wear a hat, but in practice he wore many hats: devoted son, husband to Patricia, father to Michael, Denise, and Dennis. He was not defined by job title alone. A man without a formal education, he overcame the hardship of growing up with little money with a zealous work ethic and drive to succeed. He was a determined networker before the word became popular, mastering the art of bringing people that had talent to solve problems and create business adventures.

A true entrepreneur charting his life, he built a rental property business, restaurant and started his own used car dealership, which was his work passion. Richard had a big personality and gave generously to those who worked with him and around him, always rooting for and advising those who were facing tough challenges. He felt the most satisfaction when he was able to help those that were needing a place to live, a job or a vehicle.

His pastimes included power boating on Lake Michigan, and he was most at ease with friends and family on boats his boats in Saugatuck and Holland. Family & friends remember his generous nature, kind heart and his mischievous adventures along the way.

The family is deeply grateful for the care provided by the many caregivers during his illness, as well as the entire staff at The Inn at Freedom Village in Holland, MI.

The family will meet with friends, neighbors, and relatives during visitation hours from 5-8 PM on Friday, April 22 at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel – at 3980 Cascade Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 23 at 11:30AM at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel.

Memorial gift contributions may be made to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation – Fund for Prosperity in Richard’s name at 185 Oakes St SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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8 Responses

  1. So sorry to hear that your Dad has passed, sincere condolences to the entire family.

  2. We are so sorry that you all will not have more time together to share more in the adventure of life. I know that your dad’s zealous nature warmth resilience and enthusiasm, will continue to bring joy, love humor and inspiration to all those dear to him.

    We will Miss him
    Martina John and your Tramontozzi family

  3. Rest in Peace dear Richard, You are being missed. Just the short time I know and have the privilege to care for You, Your kindness and yoyfulness always inspire me to be kind to others. May You rest in peace, where there is no more suffering. May you see God face to face and be united with your beloved wife and daughter.

  4. Mike, Marcia, Dennis, Merritt and family,
    Steve and I want you to know you described your dad perfectly. Enjoyed many good times over the years.
    I know you’ll have many good memories to cherish.
    Our sincerest sympathy,
    Laurie and Steve Freeman

  5. My sincerest condolences to Dennis and family. Prayers for you all to have the strength to overcome such a loss and peace to move forward.

  6. For Dennis Delano-Taylor,

    Dennis sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so sorry for your loss. Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time.

  7. My condolences to you and your family Dennis. Thank you for sharing such a heart-felt obituary about your father, may he rest in peace.

  8. Dennis, Merritt, Patrick, Mike and Marcia I am so sorry for the loss of Rich. He was a wonderful man. Always a jokster, loved to help others and had a heart of gold. He was loved by many. I hope you can find peace knowing he is reunited with Pat, Denise and all of his other loved ones who were waiting at heavens gate. I have many fond memories that I will cherish. I am so sorry I am unable to attend the service and visitation, but I will be with you in spirit. Hold on to those wonderful memories ♡
    Love,
    Jodie, Jason, Alexus, Brooke & Haley

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