Richard L. Painter

Richard L. Painter, 52, of Ubly died Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2007 at his home.

He was born April 8, 1954, to Leroy W. and Helen C. (Bobicz) Painter. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Richard was a microbiologist, astronomer and true environmentalist. He was a compassionate man who loved science and medicine. A man of many talents, his articles regarding audio systems and radio were published in national magazines. He owned Huron Water Testing, most recently drawing attention to the pollution of Lake Huron, and for over 20 years he worked for Huron Memorial Hospital. He took pride in his ability to perform tests on small children painlessly, lessening their suffering.

He married Diane McArdle June 5, 1976 in Ypsilanti and she survives; along with his mother, Helen C. Gardner of Milan; sisters, Joan C. (Darold) Jones of Milan, Judith K. Salyer of Ypsilanti; mother-in-law, Peggy Rogers; sisters-in-law, Pam (Jay) Sinclair of Milan and Robin (Rick) Weaver of Grass Lake; and beloved nieces, nephews and extended family as well as the good neighbors around his home in Ubly.

Richard is now safely wrapped in the arms of his dad and other family members who have gone before him.

The Funeral Liturgy took place Monday, Feb. 5, 2007 at the Ochalek Funeral Home, Milan, with procession to St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Whittaker for Mass of Christian Burial with the Rev. Fr. Nicholas Ritter as celebrant. Burial followed in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Whittaker.

In memory of Richard's miraculous cure of "hopeless and incurable" childhood cancer, we thank and honor the Blessed Mother and St. Jude who interceded on our behalf to give us 50 additional years with Richard. Memorials in his name to St. Jude's Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. or the National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation at Carey, Ohio would honor him greatly. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.ochalekstark.com.