Obituary of Richard Alan Carpenter

Richard Alan Carpenter was born at Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan on February 14, 1956.  He was the youngest of three boys born to the union of Ralph Carpenter and Barbara Deane (Champion) Carpenter.  He was a 1974 graduate of Allen Park High School.

Rich took a position with Ford Motor Company in August of 1974.  He obtained additional certificates through Siena Heights University, becoming a Tool and Die Maker.  He married Diane Kar in 1979, and the couple was blessed with two boys.  He was known to be hardworking and determined, a proud member of the UAW, Rich made many friends at work, as his career spanned thirty-eight years retiring in 2012. 

Throughout his life, Rich stayed very active, even cutting the neighbors’ firewood, just to stay busy.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing.  As a member of the Huron Valley Steelheaders Fishing Club, he made many trips to Frankfort and Ludington in search of the big catch.  He golfed anywhere and everywhere and participated in Ford bowling and softball leagues being a utility infielder.  He also played goalie in ice hockey for many years.

On August 18, 2018, at the Chapel on the Green at Riverview Highlands Golf Course, Rich married the former Donna Maria Theisen.  Although he had the tendency to be stubborn, Rich was best known for his generous and kind spirit and willingness to help others in need. 

Richard Alan “Rich” Carpenter, age 68 of Monroe passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday; September 16, 2024.  His passing was preceded by his parents and a brother:  Kenneth Carpenter.

He leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife: Donna Maria Carpenter of Monroe; two sons: Marc (Natalie) Carpenter of Henderson, Nevada and Bryan (Krystin) Carpenter of Allen Park; two stepdaughters: Jodi (Chris) Gelso of Monroe and Brandi (William "Bill") Foley of Monroe; a brother: William "Bill" Carpenter of Allen Park; three grandchildren: Kora, Eliza, and Lucas Carpenter; and five step grandchildren: Alexa and  Austin Foley, and Justin, Jillian, and Jack Gelso.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Friday; September 20, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  A Celebration of His Life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday; September 21, 2024, also at Merkle’s with Chaplain Sally Martin officiating.  A luncheon will take place at Stewart Road Church of God; 1199 Stewart Road, Monroe, Michigan 48162.  Procession will then follow to Michigan Memorial Park in Huron Township for burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance or Folds of Honor.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.