Richard Warnick
Frankenmuth, MI
Richard Michael Warnick, 79, of Frankenmuth passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026 at Covenant Glen of Frankenmuth after a lengthy illness.
Richard (Rich) was born on February 10, 1947 in Saginaw, MI to the late Rudolph and Gertrude (Umbach) Warnick. He was married to Sandi (Mueller) Warnick on May 4, 1973 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Frankenmuth. She preceded him in death on February 3, 2023.
Rich attended Michigan State before he finalized his career choice and calling of becoming a teacher, graduating from Eastern Michigan University. He interrupted his college education to enlist in the U.S. Navy, serving aboard the USS Waddell DDG-24 in the Vietnam War during his two-year enlistment. Following that, and his marriage to Sandi, he began his career serving as a Special Education Teacher in Flint, MI at Flint Central for the length of his career. He was respected for his patience and caring for his special-needs students.
Rich loved reading, hunting, fishing, nature and art. One of his unique talents was wood carving. He took lessons from the late George Kielhoffer, a Master Wood Carver (of Frankenmuth and Germany), excelling by carving hundreds of pieces. He was active in Frankenmuth’s Fine Arts Council and also participated with his close friend Russ Baker (of Tiffany Restaurant fame) in many Snow Fest large snow sculptures in the local communities including events in Canada. They also teamed up to complete large sand sculptures during the summer months. He loved playing darts in his local league for many years, winning many awards individually and as a team member. He was a proud Veteran, an active member of the American Legion and the VFW. Rich and Sandi were members of King of Kings Lutheran Church of Frankenmuth. Rich will be remembered for his friendly nature, dry sense of humor, and dedication to his family and friends.
Surviving are his brothers John (Laura) Warnick of Frankenmuth and Lee (Gail) Warnick of Rochester Hills, as well as his nieces Shannon Schoolcraft of Millington, Sarah Berry of Monroe and Sarah Brunet of Rochester Hills and his nephew, Ian Masterfield of California. Rich was preceded in death by both parents and two nieces, Elizabeth Warnick and Rebekah Warnick.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff of Covenant Glen and All Valley Hospice for the loving care and support they gave Richard (O.G.) during his time there.
Funeral Service will take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. Rev. Bruckschen will officiate. Richard’s family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Monday, March 9th from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to King of Kings Lutheran Church, Frankenmuth, American Legion Post 150 Scholarship Fund, or the Frankenmuth Fine Arts Council.
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