Richard 'Dick' Edward Klunder's Obituary
Richard (Dick) Edward Klunder, age 88, passed away peacefully at home on September 30, 2025. Born on March 6, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Richard was the son of Harold and Ruby Klunder. He spent his formative years in Howard City, attending local schools and graduating from high school in 1955. Following his education, Richard answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, where he served honorably until his discharge in 1957. On October 2, 1959, he married Ethelda Petterson in Edmore, beginning a loving partnership that lasted 66 years. Richard dedicated over 34 years to his career at Federal Mogul in Greenville, retiring in 1998. He was a man of many talents and interests, enjoying carpentry, photography, camping, hunting, square dancing, and motorcycle riding. A devoted member of Faith United Methodist Church in Edmore, he valued his faith and community deeply. Above all, Richard treasured time spent with family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ethelda; children Tammy (Pat) Vandenbosch of Muskegon, Leann (Jim) Smith of Sheridan, Beth (Kurt) Kilchermann of Vestaburg, and Rich (Wendy) Klunder of Stanton; son-in-law Steve Whetstone of Vestaburg; granddaughters Ellen, Mikayla, Nicole, Brenda; grandsons Tony, Ben, Brady, Justin, Stevie, Casey; six great-grandchildren; sister Pam (Clarence) Goodin of Sparta; and good friend Lewis Perkins, with whom he shared coffee every Wednesday. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ruby; parents in law, Ben and Ruth Petterson; daughter, Shelly Whetstone; sisters Sandy Inman and Sharon Smith; and brothers Harold and Edward Klunder. A memorial service celebrating Richard's life will be held at Faith United Methodist Church in Edmore on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 12PM. Family will greet guests from 11AM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions made in Richard's honor go to Faith United Methodist Church.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard 'Dick'?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard 'Dick'?
Share a story where Richard 'Dick''s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard 'Dick' you’ll never forget.
How did Richard 'Dick' make you smile?