Richard Douglas Cornell

With heavy hearts but enduring admiration, we celebrate the life of Richard Douglas Cornell, affectionately known as Dick, who passed away peacefully from natural causes on September 21, 2025, at the age of 93.

Born in Greenville, MI to Delbert & Elta (Hansen) Cornell on September 18, 1932, Dick embodied a spirit of adventure and service from a young age. He attained the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout and spent joyful summers as a lifeguard at Pere Marquette Park on the shores of Lake Michigan. A proud graduate of Muskegon High School, Dick furthered his education at Muskegon Junior College before serving honorably in the United States Navy during the Korean War aboard the battleship USS Iowa (BB-61).

On July 3, 1954, Dick married the love of his life, Doris Hogston. Their partnership flourished as they navigated life together, including living in married couples' housing while Dick pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan State University. After a brief stay in Illinois, they returned to Muskegon, where Dick dedicated over 30 years to Sealed Power and later SPX in the Hy-Lift division, leaving a lasting impact in his field. Dick and Doris were also longtime members at Lake Harbor United Methodist Church.

Together, Dick and Doris fostered a love for exploration and family bonding through memorable road trips to national parks like Gettysburg, Yellowstone, and the Badlands. Winter seasons were spent skiing in northern Michigan, and they often enjoyed sun-soaked spring breaks in the Florida Keys as a family. Dick's work also took him abroad, where he visited clients in Japan and Germany, enriching his experiences and broadening his horizons.

Dick is survived by his beloved son, Richard Cornell; daughters, Karen (James) Grace and Kathy Mahoney; grandchildren, Matthew (Marissa) Grace, Kathleen (Ryan) Grace, Christopher (Jenna VanFleteren) Grace, Isabel Grace, Lauren Cornell, and Trip Cornell; and great-grandchild, Noelle Grace. Dick was preceded in death by his wife Doris in 2009 and a brother Terry Cornell. His legacy of love, adventure, and commitment to family will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A private memorial service to honor Dick's life and legacy will be held at Lake Harbor United Methodist Church.

As we bid farewell to Dick, let us remember the joy he brought into our lives and the love he shared with family and friends. May his adventurous spirit continue to inspire us as we cherish the memories he leaves behind.