Roy F. Richard

**Roy F. Richard: A Life Well-Lived and a Tee Time Kept**

On February 16, 2026, Roy F. Richard, aged 73, concluded his life's round in Zephyrhills, Florida. Born on January 8, 1953, in the brisk climes of Michigan, Roy swapped snow boots for golf shoes as he gracefully split his time between the sunshine of Florida and his beloved home state. He and Sandra, his life companion, embraced the "snowbird" lifestyle, making the most of both worlds.

Roy was a man of many hats-and not just the ones he wore on the golf course. As an EMT for Northflight EMS through Munson Medical Center and Mesick Fire & Rescue, he didn't just save lives; he did it with panache. In his downtime, Roy could be found at Thirlby Automotive, probably giving out more advice than car parts.

A man of action and leisure, Roy relished in his afternoon "Board Meetings," which surely involved more shuffling of cards and less note-taking. His zest for life was matched by his love for the outdoors, enjoying fishing and trapping with the enthusiasm of a seasoned adventurer. On the field, he was a dedicated football coach and mentor, imparting wisdom to high school athletes, who likely remember his guidance-and perhaps a few legendary fishing stories.

Roy's social calendar was as packed as his tackle box. A Mason and a member of the Eagles Club, Elks Club, and Moose Lodge in both Houghton Lake and Zephyrhills, he made friends faster than a card game could start.

He is preceded in death by his son, Daniel, his parents, David and Elizabeth, and his cherished dog, Emma, who no doubt greeted him with a wagging tail at the pearly gates.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted life companion, Sandra Chrispell; his sons, Ben (Laura) Richard and Mike Richard; bonus children, Scott (Dawn) Chrispell and Amy Taylor; and a legacy of grandchildren-Maverick, Colton, Alayna, Wyatt, Garrett, Morgan, and Parker-who will undoubtedly carry forward his penchant for adventure and storytelling.

Roy's life will be celebrated in private family services, where stories will be shared, laughs will echo, and perhaps a few golf tips will be passed down. While he may have exchanged this world for fairer greens, Roy's spirit lives on, reminding us all to enjoy the game, whether it's on the course, at the table, or in life itself.