Obituaries

Reta Ann (Rowan) Richard, age 101, of St. Ignace, Michigan, died on October 23, 2026, at Straits Area Senior Living Center in St. Ignace. She was born on February 24, 1925, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Alfred and Maude (Roberts) Rowan.

Reta loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her faith remained a constant part of her life until the very end. She could often be heard thanking Him before every meal and whispering prayers throughout the day. She loved her family dearly and shared a loving and happy marriage with her husband, Clayton Richard, for fifty-four wonderful years. Reta will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor and her ability to share a long, hearty laugh with those around her. Her laughter, love, and the joy she brought to others will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Reta was a proud and long-time member of Rosedale Community Church, where her faith remained an important part of her life.

In her free time, Reta enjoyed playing the piano and gathering around the table for card games, especially Skip-Bo. She loved visiting with others and making those around her feel loved. Always generous with her affection, Reta was known for giving plenty of hugs, and a few playful butt pats, too! These little gestures were just one of the many ways she showed her love and brought smiles to those around her. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered for her faith, laughter, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met.

Reta is survived by her children, Gary Richard of Pickford, Michigan, Beverly (Robert) Parmley of Missouri, and Ronald Richard of Ionia, Michigan; grandchildren, Danielle (Brian) Bostelman, Michael Parmley, Melissa (Heath) Mohr, Amy (Nick) Earl, Lilianna (Jordan) Floyd, Jesse Richard, Jacob (Kristin) Richard, Sarah Richard, Mercy (Alec) Firack, Joseph (Brooke) Richard, Angeleah Richard, Nathan Richard, Rachel Richard, and Jonah Richard; many great-grandchildren; sister, Donna Rye of Sault Ste. Marie; and many nieces and nephews.

Reta was preceded in death by her husband, Clayton; parents, Alfred and Maud; granddaughter, Chelsea Richard; and siblings, Etta Campbell, Roy Rowan, Lela Goehle, Melvin Rowan, Jean Lee, William Rowan, Thelma Unger and Frederick Rowan.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Reta’s final resting place will be at Fairview Cemetery in Pickford.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com