Richard W. Gilchrist Sr. was born May 5, 1934, in Cadillac, MI to Warren and Evelyn Gilchrist, who preceded him in death. Richard grew up in Grand Rapids, MI where he met, and married, Patrica A. Gilchrist (Bouwkamp). He was in the U.S. Navy where he learned his trade as a Typographer, working for the Grand Rapids Press and later the Legislative Service Bureau in Lansing, MI. Richard retired from the State of Michigan, moving to Big Rapids, Mi and eventually returning to the Grand Rapids area where he passed away June 5, 2020. Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia, of 61 years. He was also preceded in death by his daughter Susan L. Gilchrist, son Bruce E. Gilchrist, sisters Gayla Parker and Rose Drayton and nephew Charlie Gilchrist. Richard is survived by his children, Linda A. Gilchrist, Richard W. Gilchrist Jr. and Bonnie L. Gilchrist (Charlie Sarrell), brother E. Michael Gilchrist (Katherine), brother-in-law Burton Bouwkamp (Emme), numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and special friends, Chad, Carol, Allysen and Gage Custer. In life, Richard was known for his work ethic and his sense of humor. Despite suffering a debilitating stroke in the fall of 1999, he never lost his sense of humor or his desire to work around the house. Richard enjoyed gardening and was a gifted handyman. He was active in sports, such as bowling and golf and later enjoyed watching those same sports, and more, on TV. He especially enjoyed watching tennis in his later years.

A graveside ceremony will be held Friday, June 19, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Grand Rapids, MI with fellowship following in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made, in his name, to the American Heart Association.