Bethel, Richard Milton Polka-dancer, cat-lover, vintage milk-bottle enthusiast, and a man with an endless appetite for Pennsylvania Dutch dishes are just a few of the traits that describe Richard "Dick" Bethel. Dick found joy in all these things and so much more yet nothing gave him greater joy than serving others. Even on his last day of July 14, 2022, which came to a peaceful end at his home with his beloved wife beside him, he spoke of plans to serve coffee to the folks "upstairs". Service to his community and others was a consistent quality that marked his entire life through his service in the Navy, his teaching career at Ferris State University, his 4-H volunteer work, and as a Master Gardener Hotline volunteer. Naming all the different ways he served during his life cannot be adequately chronicled in this space, but more important, does not honor his humble character.

Dick was born June 27, 1939, to Milton and Elsie Bethel of Reading, Pennsylvania, and was their only child. In 1974 he married his beloved wife Margaret; they were married 48 years. They lived in the Cannonsburg area for the last 30 years. In 1980 he became a father to their only child, Daniel Bethel. He gained a daughter-in-law, Sarah, in 2013. He became a grandfather to Benji, in 2015 and later to Clara (2018), and Susie (2020). Dick took great pride and love in his family, expressing his care through service. He asked his son and others (he was honored to be called "Dad" by several family friends), "How's your car running?". We love you too Dad, the cars are running just fine.

A memorial service is planned for August 19, 2022, at 11:30 at the Bostwick Lake Congregational Church, followed by a light luncheon. Visitation will be held an hour before the service.
The service will also be available for connection on Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85906057012?pwd=Y2RMOHdIOUV5cyt4SlJOQ2VPNW1CZz09 .

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kent County 4-H Youth Endowment or the Bostwick Lake Congregational Church Memorial Gardens. Service Details. Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event Ongoing Online Event About this event In Loving Memory Of Richard Bethel June 27, 1939 - July 14, 2022 Look inside to read what others have shared Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book. View Tribute Book