Richard Charles Reaume

Richard Charles Reaume was born on September 25, 1939, at home in Newport, Michigan. He was the son of Jay Reaume and Evelyn Agnes (Compau) Reaume. One of twelve children, Richard attended the one room Webb Schoolhouse in Newport. He then proudly completed his education on the farm.
Richard married the love of his life, the former Judith Ann Lambert, on September 29, 1962. The couple was blessed with four sons. He provided for his family as an Assembly Setup person for Ford Motor Company retiring in 2004 after forty-four years.
Richard's true passion however was that of farming, even earning him the nickname "Farmer". His farming career moved from horses to horsepower, as he spent more than seventy-five years working in the local fields before selling most of his equipment in 2022. His farm grew to more than 2200 acres at one point, with grain being his crop of choice. Richard was so crazy for his bride and passionate about farming that he brought her along on the ride. She quickly became a farm girl as she helped drive the tractors and tend to the livestock. They farmed together for sixty-one years. When it came to business his name and word meant everything. For many years he operated International Tractors before moving to John Deere units.
Richard raised numerous geese, duck, chickens, donkey, horses, pigs, sheep, and turkeys. He had numerous wild animals including crows and weasels even attempting to raise pheasants for conservation.
Richard was blessed with a green thumb growing beautiful roses in his garden. He often handed out his bounty to waitresses at local restaurants to help brighten their day. A wonderful host, he was known to accommodate large gatherings and amazing pig roasts, creating memorable events for all of those in attendance.
Richard enjoyed hunting, from bird to big game. Trips to Anacosta Island, Idaho, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Northern Michigan were all successful experiences. He once obtained what he called the Michigan Grand Slam bagging a tom turkey, elk, bear, and deer all in the same year. His property near Alpena, Michigan was a heavenly oasis where he spent much of his free time. He enjoyed snowmobiling – the faster the better although Judy was the racing champion in their home.
Richard Charles Reaume, age 86 of Newport passed away at Elderly Solutions on Saturday; November 1, 2025. His passing was preceded by his parents; a beloved son: Craig Reaume in 1985; five brothers: Donald Jay Reaume, James Michael Reaume, Floyd J. Reaume, Ledyard Thomas Reaume, and Joseph Edward Reaume; three sisters: Alice Jaelyn Reaume, Irene A. Schafer, and Marie Ann Reaume.
To cherish his memory, he leaves three children: Douglas Reaume of Alpena, Ron (Renee) Reaume of Perrysburg, Ohio, and Brian Reaume of Newport; a granddaughter: Rhianna Reaume-Scott (Aaron Scott); a great grandson: Beckett Reaume; two sisters: Jayne (Charles) VanWashenova and Darlene Primeau; and one brother: David (Deborah) Reaume.
Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Tuesday; November 4, 2025, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. He will lie in state from 10:00am until 11:00am on Wednesday; November 5, 2025, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church; 8125 Swan Creek Road, Newport, Michigan 48166. The Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 11:00am with Father Henry Rebello officiating. A procession will follow to St. Charles Cemetery (with the route traveling South on North Dixie Highway, to West on Post Road, to North on Newport South Road, to East on Swan Creek Road, to North on North Dixie Highway, to the Cemetery). For those who are able, the family requests Tractors to be placed along the procession route in Farmer's honor.
Memorial contributions for those who desire are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.