Richard J. Gratz

Richard J. Gratz, 85 passed away Monday, August 22, 2016. Mr. Gratz was born August 8, 1931 in River Rouge, MI the son of Edmond and Margaret (Antaya) Gratz. He served in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years and worked for the Detroit Free Press for 40 years. He was an avid pool player, enjoyed karaoke, being outside and living in Florida. He especially loved the West Michigan sunsets on Lake Michigan. He was a member of the American Legion, Moose Lodge and very active in the Elks in Florida. Surviving are his wife, Lucille (Brown) whom he married on February 6, 1954; children, Jeanette (Frank Jr.) Compau, Marylou Campbell, Richard (Mary) Gratz, David (Laurie) Gratz, Peggy (Pete) Betzinger, Russell Gratz; 13 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; sisters, Maryann Powell, Ann (William) Canfield. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Kathleen Inboden in 2005. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday 12 noon at St. John Paul II Church, Cedar Springs. The family will greet friends at 11:00 am. Rev. Fr. Lam Le celebrant. Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.