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Richard Northard Obituary
Richard "Dick" Henry Northard, 90, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend went to join his wife of 63 years on March 9, 2021. He was born in Jackson, Michigan on July 9, 1930 son of the late Lawrence and Mabel (Schuler) Northard. Dick graduated from Jackson High School in 1948. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command from 1950 until 1954. He married the former Elizabeth Ann Cavanaugh in Angola, In on May 30, 1953. She predeceased Dick on December 26, 2016. Dick attended MSU and achieved his Bachelors of Education in 1960 and his Masters in 1972. He taught for 32 years at Midland High School, retiring in 1992.
He is survived by his daughter, Catherine (David) Schultz of Bay City, Mi. and sons Rick Northard and Greg (Nicole) Northard both of Midland. Dick is also survived by his grandchildren, Jeremy (April), Nick, Andrew (Taylor) and Zachary (Sherri), Cameron, Rachel (Chad) and great-grandchildren, Makayla, Maxx, Reghan, Lucas and Kellen.
Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and the family is planning a private memorial service on the Muskegon River where they spent many happy years.
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the care of the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home 1200 W. Wheeler St.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Northard
Angie Klapish-Widmer
March 28, 2021
My condolences to Mr. Northard's family. He was one of my favorite teachers at Midland High. I so enjoyed the time I spent in his drafting classes. RIP Mr. Northard. Thanks for all the encouragement and inspiration you gave me.
Bill Witt
March 20, 2021
A great teacher and family man.
Rita Tracy
March 17, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Northard’s passing. He was such a joy, always positive and smiling. I have had many conversations with him about his time in the military and about his family, he was so proud of his kids and grandkids. Dick spoke so highly of the help and care they gave him and his wife over the years. I am glad he is with his wife now, he deeply missed her. Rest In Peace my friend.
Russ Mathers
March 15, 2021
I’m sorry to hear this, Mr Northard was a great drafting teacher which helped me in my Aerospace Engineering studies and career in the Air Force Strategic Air Command, just like he served in! Condolences for your loss, he was a great teacher who inspired many.
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Paul Walker
March 15, 2021
Mr Northard was a much enjoyed Drafting Teacher at Midland High, he was calm, gentle and caring in his teaching style. I never knew him outside of school but I'm sure his daily life was the same. So sorry to the Northard family and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Pamella Pease
March 15, 2021
Rick and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was such a kind man and wonderful role model. We were neighbors on Wallen St in the late '70's and 80's. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
I have fond memories of your Dad teaching me how to drive a stick shift in a green VW Beetle on our street and around town. What a patient man! :)
Peace to you and yours,
Pam (Doege) Pease
Carol
March 13, 2021
Gerry and I saddened to read of Dick’s passing. He and Betty were like family with our young family while we lived on Wallen Street. The many conversations and laughs will be remembered with much love. Dick was a wonderful role model. Hugs to all of you.
Gerry and Carol LaChapelle
Jeanne Doege
March 13, 2021
Northard Family: Our deepest sympathy to your family in the loss of Dick. We were neighbors while living on Wallen Street in Midland. Both Dick and Betty were wonderful friends. I do regret that we lost touch with one another. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
Jeanne and Charlie
Pete Edmonds
March 13, 2021
So sorry for your loss Cathy. My good memories of your dad were sitting next to him on the bus for our 4th grade field trip to the Tulip Festival in Holland and also as one of my favorite teachers for drafting in high school. He was fun.
Dave Schmitt
March 12, 2021
Very sorry to hear this news. Mr. Northard was one of my favorite teachers at MHS back in 1978-1980.
Steve Cantrell
March 12, 2021
We will miss your father’s sharp wit and friendship. It was always nice to know he was across the street. Both Dick and Betty were the best welcome wagon when we moved to the neighborhood. Will miss listening to his stories.
Steve and Robin
Denise Lundberg
March 11, 2021
Cathy-
So sorry to read about your Dad's passing. Thinking of you at this time.
Remembering fun times in High School!
Sincerely,
Denise (May) Lundberg
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
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Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors - Midland Chapel1200 W. Wheeler St, Midland, MI 48640
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