Richard A. Block

1945 - 2021

Richard A. Block

February 5, 1945 - November 6, 2021

Richard A. Block, 76, of Lambertville, MI, passed away at Ebeid Hospice Residence in Sylvania, OH on November 6, 2021. Richard was born February 5, 1945, to Richard L. and Linda (nee Rodammer) Block in Saginaw, MI. He graduated from Frankenmuth High School, Concordia, Ann Arbor and Concordia Teacher's College, River Forest, IL. He was united in marriage with his high school and college sweetheart Marajean Palmreuter on November 25, 1967.

Richard was a faithful minister of the Lord, serving as a Lutheran educator for 43 years. He was a teacher, coach, and administrator at Lutheran Schools in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. He was instrumental in leading a struggling Indianapolis Lutheran High to become a nationally recognized school in a brand-new modern facility. He was a successful and longtime high school basketball coach, winning over 300 games in his career and coaching both of his children. At various times he also coached football, baseball, and softball. He inspired students and colleagues alike through his leadership, diligence, personality, and faith, and led both his children to become teachers and coaches themselves. Richard was past president of the Association of Lutheran Secondary Schools and received his doctorate from Nova Southeastern University in 2001.

Upon retirement in 2011, Richard and Marajean moved back to Michigan and joined Christ the King Lutheran Church in Lambertville where he served as congregational president and as a deacon. His free time revolved around sports, whether it was watching his favorite Michigan teams, his grandchildren's games, or competing himself. He loved playing softball, traveling across the country to compete in tournaments and playing until age 75.

Richard is survived by his loving and faithful wife of nearly 54 years, Marajean; son Jason (Sarah) Block of Racine, WI; daughter Audra (Matt) VanBrandt of Ottawa Lake, MI; brother, Bob (June) Block of Auburn, MI; grandchildren, Aaron Block, Andrew Block, Grace Block, Anna VanBrandt, and Aly VanBrandt. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Gary.

Visitation will be from 4-9 p.m. Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at the Michael W. Pawlak Funeral Home, 1640 Smith Rd. (at Jackman) Temperance, MI. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 2843 W Sterns Rd, Lambertville, MI 48144, where he will lie in state after 10:00 a.m. Memorials may be made to the church, Camp Restore Detroit, or the charity of the donor's choice.

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