Richard Lynn Craven

Richard L Craven, 77, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, went peacefully to be with the Lord on December 3, 2021. Born in Wichita, Kansas on April 19, 1944, Richard was preceded in death by his father and mother, Bill and Georgina (Ulrich) Craven. He grew up in Russell, Kansas surrounded by cousins, aunts and uncles, spending memorable summers at Lake Wilson, playing snooker and working at his father’s auto shop. His prized possession was his 1933 Ford which he proudly restored with his Dad. It was in Russell where Richard first set eyes on the love of his life, Cheryl, while she was cruising main street in her sky-blue T-Bird. They married in 1969 and moved to Kalamazoo where they shared 52 years together and raised three children. Richard and Cheryl raised their family on Crooked Lake where he was meticulous in everything he touched, whether it was home improvement projects, grooming the beach, crafting the perfect bite or writing his timeless Christmas letters. Nothing made Richard prouder than his grandchildren. He reveled in their achievements and abilities to overcome obstacles. He was their hero, historian, master of all subjects and their greatest supporter. His undying love, strength and wisdom will live eternal through them. Richard graduated from Russell High School, and earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in chemistry from Fort Hays State, in Hays, Kansas. Richard spent his career at The Upjohn Company (later known as Pharmacia and Pfizer) as a Chemist, and Systems Analyst. For over two decades, Richard served his community in various roles in township government including as Texas Township Trustee and as Texas Township Planning Commission Chairman. Richard is survived by his wife Cheryl (Woelk), and children Romy (Michael) Patterson, Morgan Craven (Andrea Mills), and Dari (Michael) Bargy, and seven grandchildren. At a later date, a private service for immediate family will be held in celebration of Richard’s life. While visiting Richard’s tribute page please take a moment to light a candle or share a memory with the family. The Craven family is being assisted by Avink, McCowen, & Secord Schoolcraft Chapel, 129 S. Grand Street, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269) 679-5622. Memorials made in Richard's memory may be directed to any of the following: National Fragile X Foundation 1861 International Drive, Suite 200, McLean, VA 22102 https://fragilex.org/donate/ Miracle for Madison 6166 Enke Ct., Dublin, Ohio 43017 http://www.miracleformadison.org Hospice of Southwest Michigan 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 https://centricacare.org/giving/