Richard Kowatch

Richard David Kowatch, 81, of Ludington, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at his home. Richard was born on December 19, 1936 in Escanaba, Michigan, the son of Joe and Elaine Kowatch. The family followed Joe’s coaching career and farming to Grant, Santon, and finally to Ludington in 1952. At Ludington High School, Richard excelled in athletics which continued to be a highlight in his life. He went on to play football for CMU before joining the National Guard. Richard raised two sons, Jack and Joe. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and trapping, as well as building fishing rods, fly tying, and building golf clubs. In 1978, he married Sheila Talsma. Together they enjoyed skiing, biking, and white water rafting, in addition to Richard’s many activities. After 31 years at Dow Chemical, Richard retired in 1990, when he added golf to his list of hobbies. Richard will be missed by his wife, Sheila; sons, Jack of Ludington and Joe (Charlena) of Ormond Beach, FL; grandsons, Derek (Amber) and Shawn of Ludington; granddaughter, Melania of Italy; great granddaughter, Mallory of Ludington; siblings, Mitzi Mudget of Fremont, MaryJo Miller and James (Gabe) of Ludington. Private family services will be held at a later date. Please share your fond memories of Richard at www.OakGroveFH.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington.