Richard A Michael

In Loving Memory

A Life Remembered with Love and Laughter

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Alex Michael, whose life was a story filled with love, family and an enduring sense of adventure.

Early Life and Roots

The baby everyone knew as Dick was born in Laurel, Montana on October 25, 1937, to Edith and Alec. He grew up in Laurel with his two brothers, Don and Jerry, and his two sisters, Bonnie and Sandy, and cousins aplenty. He knew everyone, and everyone knew him. He loved hunting and fishing, and was always very proud of being a Montanan. After graduating from Laurel High School, he spent a short time in the Army, before transferring the Montana National Guard, He was proud to serve his state and his country as a supply sergeant, which means that our family all knew exactly what C-Rations were, which were our favorites, and which to avoid at all costs!

A Life of Purpose

On September 4, 1960, Dick married the love of his life, Nancy Lou Williams, and they were never apart from that time forward. Over the next 11 years they welcomed three children into their lives, Chris, Stef and Pat. He always loved being involved in the community in various capacities to include State President of the Jaycees, and the “Avon Lady” in the retirement community.

Dick was a railroad man, and worked there for 30 plus years. He started on the Northern Pacific, and after various mergers, served under both the Burlington Northern and the Burlington Northern San Francisco titles. His leadership was rewarded with promotions, and transfers around the upper Midwest to include Butte, Montana, Mandan, North Dakota, back to Laurel and finally to Lincoln, Nebraska, where he became a huge fan of the Nebraska Cornhusker football team.

Family and Friendship

Dick loved his family with every fiber of his huge heart. He sat through endless band and choir concerts, and was always there to cheer his kids on in whatever they did. He and Nancy were always fiercely proud that all their children earned their college degrees. He welcomed Jim and Mike as son-in laws, and daughter-in law Jenn into the merry band. Soon three granddaughters, Annie, Jenny and Ella joined the family. He loved to tease them, and they delighted in returning the favor. After Nancy’s illness, he retired and devoted himself to caring for her until she passed. They moved back to Laurel, and then to Colorado Springs and later Omaha to be near family.

Passions and Pursuits

Dick and Nancy loved to travel and go camping, and they weren’t about to let her illness deprive them of their joy. They had numerous RVs and traveled all over to see family and friends. They loved to go on cruises, and sailed to Maine and Alaska, Mexico and through the Panama Canal. Dick was an incredible storyteller, and he wasn’t above stretching the truth, or sprinkling in a bit of out-and-out fiction to create captivating tales about his proudest moments with family and friends. There was always a grain of truth in the story…somewhere.

Legacy and Remembrance

Though Dick’s journey on earth has drawn to a close, his spirit endures in the stories we share, the lessons we carry, and the love that remains. Our world is richer for his presence and forever changed by his example. He never met a stranger, and could talk to anyone, about anything…and often did. He liked his steak rare, his eggs sunny side up, and his fish on someone else’s plate.

A Final Farewell

We grieve not only what has been lost but also give thanks for all that has been. The laughter shared, the wisdom imparted, and the love given freely—these are the gifts left behind. We will miss the booming voice, the big bear hugs, and the twinkle in his eye when he was up to some kind of mischief. The world is a better place for his having been in it, and we are blessed to have been able to call you Dad, Grandpa and Papa Dick.

Your journey here has ended, but your light endures—guiding, inspiring, and illuminating the paths of those who follow. Be at Peace.