Obituary of Richard Francis Rice

Richard Francis Rice was born September 4, 1938 in Royal Oak, Michigan. He was one of six children born from the union of the late Harold Rice and the late Mildred (Keidel) Rice. He received his education by attending Redford Union High School before enlisting in the United States Navy which brought him to places he’d never imagined he’d see including Hawaii, California and overseas. He proudly served his country for four years until he was honorably discharged.

He would meet and marry the love of his life: the former Eunice (Francetich) in November of 1973. He worked hard for many years at General Motors to support his family and devoted his life to making sure they were well taken care of.

Richard was a car enthusiast from a young age and enjoyed attending car shows, tinkering with them and even racing them. He kept busy, tediously working on projects in the garage. He always looked forward to taking trips to Frankenmuth with his family.

Above anything, Richard was family man. He was a loving husband, a great father and cherished his time spent with his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Richard Francis Rice, age 80 of Monroe, passed away on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital surrounded by his family. His passing is preceded by his beloved wife: Eunice Rice; his grandson: Tyler Klupacs; his brother: Doug Rice and his parents.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his beloved children; his grandchildren: Spencer, Jacob, Noah, Brendan, Kaleb, Abby and Aiden; his brothers: Ken Rice and Tom Rice; his sisters: Fran Rice and Barb Phillips and many extended family members and friends.

Friends and family may gather on Sunday, February 10, 2019 from 2:00pm-8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. He will Lie-in-State on Monday, February 11, 2019 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 127 North Monroe Street from 9:00am until a Mass of Resurrection at 10:00am. Procession will follow to Michigan Memorial Park in Flat Rock for Entombment. 

Online guests may leave words of inspiration or comfort, send a floral arrangement or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.