Richard Warren Ayriss Sr.

01/11/1937

02/07/2019

Memorial contributions

may be made to:

Association for the Blind

& Visually Impaired

456 Cherry St. SE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Richard Warren Ayriss Sr., age 82 of Lowell, passed away Thursday, February 7, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Lillian (Jackson) Ayriss; sister, Judy Cooper; and brothers-in-law, Don Scanlon and David Scanlon. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Donna; children, Cynthia (Mark) List, Richard Ayriss Jr., Michael Ayriss, Kevin (Angela) Ayriss; brothers, Arthur Ayriss, David (Ruth Ann) Ayriss, Daryl (Sheryl) Ayriss; sisters, Mary Richardson, Darlene (Richard) Keil; sister-in-law, Marie Tiesma; grandchildren, Hilary (Anthony) Smigiel, Courtney (James) Kibby, Jaden Ayriss; great-grandchild Greyson Kibby; several nieces and nephews; special friends Bill and Becky Campbell, Ellen and Duane Everest; and his faithful companion, Benji, whom he walked 3 times per day. Richard was a wonderful man who was naturally curious and loved to learn how things work. He enjoyed playing cards, a good doughnut and cup of coffee, and grilling a good meal for family. He had a great love for the outdoors and spent time camping and kayaking. Richard was also an avid cyclist, riding a Trek bike. Visitation will be held Tuesday, February 12, from 6-8 PM at Roth-Gerst Chapel, 305 N. Hudson, Lowell.  Funeral will be 11 AM Wednesday, February 13, at Roth-Gerst Chapel, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Bill Hossler officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to the Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired, 456 Cherry St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

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7 Responses

  1. I will miss you dearly, I had lots of fun playing cards, sharing holidays with family & your kind heart.
    God Bless You. R.I.P.
    Love forever, Brenda Webber

  2. As a friend of Richard’s sister, Mary Richardson, my thoughts and prayers are with Richards family. Although I have never met Mr.Aryss, he surely seems to have been a fine man. Marti Disler

  3. Prayers and hugs to you Donna, and your family. Richard is going to be missed by his Sunday dinner bunch. Love Duane and Ellen Everest.

  4. I had known Richard for many years. First as a coworker then as a friend. He always was one to help anyone in anyway he could.He gave without thought and asked nothing in return other than friendship. He made work a easier place to be at because of who he was. He was someone I looked up to and I learned much from him. Even though I had not seen him for awhile it seems like it was yesterday that I had. I can remember many good things about Richard but what has always been the best thing about him was he had a big heart,he loved his family, friends, the outdoors, and helping others when and where he was asked. He is someone who had a positive affect on my life then and still has now. He will be missed, but I know he is in a better place and that he is only a thought away. My thoughts and prayers are with Donna Kevin and the rest of Richards family.

  5. Dear Family Members of Richard Ayriss.
    We did not know Richard but my sister, Virginia (Christman) VanderWall graduated with Richard from Caledonia High School and I, Gerry (Christman) Thornton graduated with David Ayriss. We do know what it is like to lose a loved one, for my brother Ted Christman was 5 years younger than me passed away February 12, 2019.

    May you find comfort in knowing others are praying for all of you in your loss of a dear loved one.

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