In memory of our loving Father and Husband,
Richard Rabitoy, Sr., age 85, of Gladstone, passed away Tuesday afternoon, October 11, 2022 at Pinecrest Medical Care Facility.
Richard was born September 4, 1937 in Gladstone, MI, the son of Francis and Eva (Blair) Rabitoy. He was a 1955 graduate of Gladstone High School. He was united in marriage to Shirley Mathia on April 14, 1956. The couple then went to Chicago where Richard worked for the Janitor’s Union. In 1957, the couple returned to Gladstone where they raised their 7 children. He was the manager of the Shell Service.
In 1959, Richard started at the Mead Paper. He served as a foreman and worked until his retirement in 1995.
The couple was able to check off his bucket list living in a log cabin on the water and they spent 13 years out in Stonington.
Following retirement, Richard joined St. Vincent DePaul Society and established the building in Gladstone. He was instrumental in their beginning. Due to his illness he had to take a step back.
In addition to his loving wife of 66 years, Shirley, he is survived by:
5 Sons: Richard (Janice) Rabitoy, Jr. of Plymouth, WI
Gary (Nancy) Rabitoy of Rabitoy of Pellston, MI
Michael (Barbara) Rabitoy of Sheboygan, WI
Daniel Rabitoy of Menominee, MI
Jeffrey Rabitoy of Gladstone, MI
2 Daughters: Kimberly (Paul) Reubens of Gladstone, MI
Rita (Jerry) Erickson of Rapid River, MI
1 Sister: Rita Mae Rabitoy
19 Grandchildren
And 26 Great Grandchildren
In addition to his Parents, Richard is preceded in death by:
2 Sisters: Roberta Hartman and Carol Louis
And 1 Brother: Francis Rabitoy
Family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Vincentian Prayers and Funeral Services will follow at 1:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. A luncheon will follow at the All Saints Catholic Church. Richard will be laid to rest in the Gardens of Rest in Wells, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society or the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Rabitoy family.
Kathy Elliott - Perkins, Mi
Rita and family. I was so sorry to read of the passing of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Rita Erickson - Rapid River, MI
Dad we love you & you will surely be missed. No more pain or suffering. You worked hard all your life, now you deserve a
much deserved rest. Go with God. Rest in Peace.
Love Jerry & Rita Erickson
Chuck & Lynn Larsen - Rapid River, MI
Shirley and family we are so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. We enjoyed several years of being neighbors with Shirley and Richard. We will always remember Rich’s many kindnesses.
Pamela Wendrick - KINGSFORD, MI
Aunt Shirley and family:
My condolences to you all for the passing of uncle Richard. My prayers are with you all.
Gary & Becky Lehman - Escanaba, MI
Our condolences to Rita & Jerry Erickson and Rita’s entire family. Rita, your dad is in a good place now…He earned his wings! May he Rest in Peace!
LYNN DENEAU - GLADSTONE, MI
Rita and family, I am so sorry to hear of your dads passing away. You were very lucky to have him that many years but that does not make it any easier. Hope time and family will comfort you. With much Sympathy.