Richard Michael Pagels

Richard Michael Pagels, 60, of Greenbush, born April 2, 1954, passed away at his home on Dec. 20, 2014. Preceding him in death were his parents, Wallace and Frieda Pagels, of Greenbush. Surviving are his son, Sam Pagels and daughter-in-law Sarah and two grandsons, Asher and Josiah, from Spruce; sisters, Sandy (Don) Nuffer of Greenbush and Linda (Tom) Ruemenapp of Bessemer; and brother Randy (Jamie) Pagels of Traverse City; a number of nieces and nephews, and an extended family of cousins.
At the age of 5, Rick's family moved from Mt. Morris to Greenbush, his permanent home for the remainder of his life. Rick attended elementary and high school in Oscoda, growing up just steps away from Cedar Lake. As a child he saw the potential for business, selling bait (worms) to the fisherman in the area. Later he started and maintained his own business, Rick's Roofing, working locally. This work sustained him through the years. He had much joy and pride working with his, son, Sam, and seeing him learn and be licensed in the roofing construction trade.
But there would be an even greater interest in Rick's life that came to characterize him to all who loved and knew him, that of being a Christian. Even his family heritage could be traced to missionaries from Germany bringing the Gospel to an Indian settlement in the founding of Frankenmuth. At the age of 16 he dedicated his life to be patterned after that of Christ. To walk as Jesus did became his greatest desire and aim, bringing the light of the Gospel into our lives like no other. He had a way of drawing us in to listen to his insights and understanding of Bible prophesy, reciting whole passages of scripture, astounding all who heard. It was also Rick's work as a father to pass down this like precious faith to Sam.
His day to day life was simple, peaceable, and quiet – a hunter and great fisherman. Rick's capacity to be a true and faithful friend was known by many. He was a gentle, caring man, showing brotherly kindness to all. He knew the blessing of being content and generously remembered and gave to those less fortunate. He worked with his hands, loved from his heart, and spoke in the Spirit. He loved much because he knew he had been forgiven much.
Rick's life and the light he brought will forever inspire us to let our light so shine. We see Jesus a little clearer and brighter than before because of him. He could say by faith "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." We will truly miss him.
A graveside service was held at Westlawn Cemetery in Harrisville on Dec. 23 for a gathering of family and friends.