Richard M. Bakka

1931 - 2020

Richard “Dick” M. Bakka of Brighton; passed away peacefully on November 14, 2020;  age 89. Beloved Father of Rick (Jennifer) Bakka, Lori (Dan) Mager, Maria (Larry) Rotter, and Paula (Bob) Glise.  Grandpa of Kelsey, Allison, Jacob, Cameron, Megan, Alec, Stefani, Hannah, & Nathan; preceded in death by grandson, Peyton and brothers Larry Bakka, Bill Bakka, & Jim Bakka.

Dick was born on April 8, 1931 in Montreal, Wisconsin to Larry & Maymie Bakka.  He grew up in the Hurley, Wisconsin/Ironwood, Michigan area, until his father left the iron mines of the Upper Peninsula to make a new home for the family in Dearborn, Michigan and later moving to Livonia, Michigan. As a teenager, Dick helped run the family soda fountain and gas station.  Dick was a graduate of Henry Ford Trade School, where he began his life-long career as a toolmaker.  Post- graduation, Dick was proud to serve his country as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, where he was an aerial photographer during the Korean War. Prior to his retirement, Dick had been co-owner of two different tool & die shops. He raised his four children in Westland with his former wife of 30 years, Kathy Bakka.

Dick was a kind man and had a dry wit that always made people smile.  He enjoyed sharing summer days with family and friends at the family cottage.  He usually liked some adventure and shared it with others by pulling countless water skiers and boating.  His cross-country motorcycle trip at 22, was evidence of his desire for a fun challenge.

Dick also had a passion for vintage cars, collecting and restoring several from his youth.

A love of music has always been a part of Dick’s life, from his Marine Corps trumpet playing to listening and singing with others.  He also enjoyed the camaraderie of friends with a nightly game of pool in his later years.

Dick will certainly be missed by his family and friends, but we do celebrate his life and the love he gave to us.  We are grateful for the time we have had to share with him on this earth.  In recent years, Dick accepted Jesus as his Savior, so we are joyful that we will all have the opportunity to see him again in Heaven.

A private graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, in memory of Richard.

Please leave a memory or condolence on Richard’s online guestbook below.

 

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. 
The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;
and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
John 11: 25-26