Richard Anthony Kitts

Richard Anthony Kitts was born on May 1, 1938, and passed away on August 26, 2024. He was the middle son of Anthony and Eugenia (Rozniak) Kitts. He grew up in Auburn, MI and graduated from T.L. Handy High School in Bay City, MI. He moved to Bay City and then to Monroe, MI. Rich eventually retired from the Heat & Frost Insulator and Allied Workers Local 47 and began spending his summers at his cabin on Au Sable Lake in Lupton, MI and wintering in Rockledge, FL. 

Rich lived his life to the fullest, which was marked by his adventurous spirit and a knack for causing a bit of trouble along the way, traits that made him endearing to those around him. He was the life of every gathering and always had a plan, idea or joke to tell you.

Family was Rich's pride and joy, and he delighted in every moment spent with his family. Rich had a zest for life that extended beyond his family. He enjoyed jeep rides, boating, and taking long walks with one of his many dogs that he owned throughout his years. You could always find him out on the dance floor or organizing a euchre game.

He is survived by his beloved daughters, Robin (John) Monville and Michelle Bieri, daughter-in-law Michelle Kitts, and three children through his marriage to Veronica (Payment), Tauni Jones, Rob (Louise) Murphy, and Joseph (Laurie) Mold. His heart swelled with love for his grandchildren: Dustin Barrons, Briana Alvarez, Lauren Jones, Anthony Kitts, Jack Brewer, Caroline Kitts, Michael Bieri, Alex Peplinski, Ashton Bieri, Sam Bieri, Hailey Brooks, Collin Heideman, Sarah Murphy, Brian Murphy, Aaron Mold and Shamus Mold, his great-grandson, James Brooks, and his cherished sisters, Diane Kitts and Phyllis Boman. Spending time with them brought him unmatched happiness and fulfillment, marking many of his proudest accomplishments.

Rich went to join his beloved wife Vickie who preceded him in death along with his parents, his son, Scott Kitts, his stepdaughter, Trina Murphy, and his brothers, Donald Kitts and Robert Kitts.

As we remember Richard Anthony Kitts, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, adventure, and family bonds that will last forever. His spirit will continue to inspire and warm the hearts of those he cherished.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make memorial donations on behalf of Richard Kitts may do so to: The Family Counseling and Shelter Service of Monroe County or Mitten Mutts Dog Rescue.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. at Gephart Funeral Home in Bay City, MI. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial Service will take place on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park in La Salle, MI.