I realize it has been a year now, but my heart goes out to you. May Dick rest in peace. With love
Marge
Vanthof, MI
I worked briefly with Dick on matters relating to workforce development and training through the State of Michigan. His energy and innovation greatly impressed me. His contribution to the community and those concerned with the quality of the Upper Peninsula’s workforce will miss his dedication and commitment.
God’s blessing and peace on your family.
Gwen Timmons
Marquette, MI
On behalf of the Lake Superior State University Foundation and School of Engineering, we wish to express our condolences to the Dick VandeVusse family. Dick was a recent member of the LSSU Industrial Advisory Board and was known to the School of Engineering staff and faculty for his dedication and support of higher learning. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed at LSSU.
LSSU Foundation & School of Engineering
Sault Ste Marie, MI
Dick was my big brother and friend. While many knew him through business or work, I knew him all my life. Even when he was younger, he was always helping others and would go the extra mile. When our father died suddenly when Dick was 11, Dick assumed the role of “man of the house” and worked the garden and would “tinker” with many things in the garage. He had a great sense of humor, a positive attitude and was a hard worker even as a teen. When he left to go to MTU, we had no idea he would return with a double degree and such big dreams. And of course, he had begun a love for the U.P. that kept growing.
The day he married Bev was one of the happiest days of his life. Our family gained an awesome sister, and he was so blessed to have Bev in his life. And he was so proud of Lisa, and when Leah arrived he became such a happy grandpa.
Dick set an example of what being a true servant really means. Whether helping his family, friends, employees or chuch family, he kept giving of himself. Dick was an example of what it means to live by the Spirit by showing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. He was truely a”gentle giant”.
Our family’s loss is great, but Heaven has gained a true servant. I am sure he has already heard God’s voice saying “well done, good and faithful servant”. I think the best thing we can do to honor Dick is to live our lives as he did, by living out the Fruit of the Spirit. We loved Dick and will miss him, but rejoice in knowing we will be united in Eternity. Thank you God for giving us such an awesome brother and friend.
Kathy Johnson
Grand Haven, MI
I remember Richard as being full of ideas, energy, and passion – he did so much for the community and his passing leaves a void. My sympathy to Richard’s family and colleagues.
Joe Sabol
Marquette, MI
Dear Bev,
Just a note to extend our sympathy to you and your family.
Sincerely,
“Vanden Brinks” Doug and Nancy, Donna and Harlan, Duane and Ginger, Darwin
Donna Rypma
Whitehall, MI
We are so very sorry for your family’s loss. Dick was a wonderful person and we are all honored that we knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Michigan Tech friends from the Wood-to-Wheels Group
Houghton, MI
Bev & Family
With deepest sympathy, We are very honored to know Dick and very proud of his accomplishments
and what he has done for the community. His legacy will live for many years to come.
Will Jr. & Debbie Carne
Escanaba, MI
Dick will be missed by all of us at AG Solutions and Vanaire. The country needs more leaders like Dick. He wasn’t happy unless he had ten things going on at once. His contributions to the area will be felt and appreciated for years to come.
Pat Cleveland
Gladstone, MI
Sharing in your sorrow of the loss of someone so special. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Dick’s contributions and brilliant mind will be sorely missed by the entire community and state. His entrepreneurial spirit and determination were outstanding. I can only hope the legacy he leaves through his business ventures will continue on in the future.
Warren Schauer, MSU Extension
Escanaba, MI
I only knew Dick for a short period of time, but had the pleasure of flying with him from Cincinnati to Escanaba on his airplane. In that short trip I was able to realize that Dick was a very intelligent, insightful man, with the motivation and knowledge to bringing his ideas to fruition. Dick afforded me my first and quite possibly only opportunity to fly an airplane…it was an experience that I will never forget! Thanks to Dick, all of the people that I came in contact with in Escanaba somehow might have received the impression that I was an actual pilot… The world has lost a great person, and my heart goes out to all of his family, and to all of the people that were fortunate enough to have shared some quality time with Dick…you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Scott Rinehart
Cincinnati, OH
I first met Dick as a young college student working as an intern at CCI in Marquette county 30 years ago. I count myself fortunate to have known him and called him friend for 30 years. Through our working careers and family I enjoyed his enthusiasm and zest for life. My wife Susan and I will miss him and offer our heartfelt sympathy to Bev and his family on this tragic loss. “Hulk” we will miss you dearly.
John and Susan Sandy
Marquette, MI
Dick is much more than just a boss, he is much more than just a friend; I love Dick like a brother. Dick truly made me feel like I was family. He was a great leader who had a clear vision for what he wanted not only the company to shoot for, but he had even a clearer vision for how to mentor people in order for them to succeed and grow in life.
Bev, I will continue to pray and support you in whatever way I can. I love you guys. You continue to show unbeleivable stength during this time and I know it is because of the faith that you have and the love and support from a great family and friends.
Dick, I will never forget what you have taught me over the past 12 years. I thank God for blessing me to be part of the VanAire family.
Bill, I love you man. You have many of the great charactertics of your brother. I look forward to getting to know you more during this next chapter of our lives. Whatever you need, I will be there for you.
Lisa, You are a great daughter and a strong source of strength for your mom. You have a great daughter that melted Dick’s heart. He was so proud of you and showed the picture of you and Leah to almost everyone he met. Thanks for being there for your mom during this time.
Kathy, Barb, and the rest of the VandeVusse family. I am truly sorry for your loss. Dick talked about his siblings quite often and was very proud of each of you. He always felt “kinda bad” for not being around as often as he maybe should have been, but he truly loved each of you.
There are so many things that I would love to say about Dick, so I will continue to tell of these things verbally for the rest of my life instead of taking up valuable space on this site.
“His dreams are still alive”
Tony Lambert
Escanaba, MI
Dick was truly an innovator regarding dissolved air flotation. His equipment allowed our company to improve its wastewater pretreatment and grease recovery for financial benefit. Dick’s kind and gentile nature was refreshing to work with and he was a pleasure to be around. Our prayers are with his loved ones.
Bob Behlers
Dakota Dunes, SD
Dear Bev-
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Dick was an inspiration. His entrepreneurial sprit, passion, and fortitude to do what is right is a code for all business owners.
Depending on the timing of ther services, I may be out of town on business. In either case, please know my prayers are with you.
If there is anything I can do, please feel comfortable calling on me.
God Bless
Les Cseter
Escanaba, MI
Please accept my sincere condolescences.
I only had the pleasure and honor of meeting Dick three times. Every time, he had left me impressed and inspired by his brilliant mind, boundless imagination, ambition and humility.
The strength of Dick’s spirit will surely endure.
Mike Olson
Houghton, MI
Richard was a wonderful man, I will allways remember his big smile and large laugh. He had a kind heart and was always looking ahead. Allways positive and ever looking at a new way to do things. Those of us that were blessed to have known Dick, enjoyed him greatly. He will be sorely missed. He leaves behind a legacy and many that can and will carry his dreams to full fruition. With great sympathy to his family and loved ones I will keep you and Dick in my prayers
John Caldwell
Kalamazoo, MI
I just met Dick the Friday before he went to the hospital. He had an amazing presence – friendly, compassionate, vibrant and full of challenge. I can only imagine how much of an impact he must have had on everyone who knew him and the community in which he was involved. You are all in my prayers.
Jeanne Shibley
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
To the family of Dick, It was such a pleasure to know him. I have known him most of my life as he was a friend of my family Bill and Ruth Chopp in Painesdale. He always called me sunshine and I have fond memories of him. God’s blessings to his family.
Ann Marie Lantz (Chopp)
Toivola, MI
We had the privilege of knowing Dick for 25 years and we will both miss him. It was no surprise to see his dreams become reality – the man was truly brilliant. His family lost a kind and generous man, and our state has lost one of its finest native sons. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family.
Anonymous
I realize it has been a year now, but my heart goes out to you. May Dick rest in peace. With love
Marge
Vanthof, MI
I worked briefly with Dick on matters relating to workforce development and training through the State of Michigan. His energy and innovation greatly impressed me. His contribution to the community and those concerned with the quality of the Upper Peninsula’s workforce will miss his dedication and commitment.
God’s blessing and peace on your family.
Gwen Timmons
Marquette, MI
On behalf of the Lake Superior State University Foundation and School of Engineering, we wish to express our condolences to the Dick VandeVusse family. Dick was a recent member of the LSSU Industrial Advisory Board and was known to the School of Engineering staff and faculty for his dedication and support of higher learning. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed at LSSU.
LSSU Foundation & School of Engineering
Sault Ste Marie, MI
Dick was my big brother and friend. While many knew him through business or work, I knew him all my life. Even when he was younger, he was always helping others and would go the extra mile. When our father died suddenly when Dick was 11, Dick assumed the role of “man of the house” and worked the garden and would “tinker” with many things in the garage. He had a great sense of humor, a positive attitude and was a hard worker even as a teen. When he left to go to MTU, we had no idea he would return with a double degree and such big dreams. And of course, he had begun a love for the U.P. that kept growing.
The day he married Bev was one of the happiest days of his life. Our family gained an awesome sister, and he was so blessed to have Bev in his life. And he was so proud of Lisa, and when Leah arrived he became such a happy grandpa.
Dick set an example of what being a true servant really means. Whether helping his family, friends, employees or chuch family, he kept giving of himself. Dick was an example of what it means to live by the Spirit by showing love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. He was truely a”gentle giant”.
Our family’s loss is great, but Heaven has gained a true servant. I am sure he has already heard God’s voice saying “well done, good and faithful servant”. I think the best thing we can do to honor Dick is to live our lives as he did, by living out the Fruit of the Spirit. We loved Dick and will miss him, but rejoice in knowing we will be united in Eternity. Thank you God for giving us such an awesome brother and friend.
Kathy Johnson
Grand Haven, MI
I remember Richard as being full of ideas, energy, and passion – he did so much for the community and his passing leaves a void. My sympathy to Richard’s family and colleagues.
Joe Sabol
Marquette, MI
Dear Bev,
Just a note to extend our sympathy to you and your family.
Sincerely,
“Vanden Brinks” Doug and Nancy, Donna and Harlan, Duane and Ginger, Darwin
Donna Rypma
Whitehall, MI
We are so very sorry for your family’s loss. Dick was a wonderful person and we are all honored that we knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Michigan Tech friends from the Wood-to-Wheels Group
Houghton, MI
Bev & Family
With deepest sympathy, We are very honored to know Dick and very proud of his accomplishments
and what he has done for the community. His legacy will live for many years to come.
Will Jr. & Debbie Carne
Escanaba, MI
Dick will be missed by all of us at AG Solutions and Vanaire. The country needs more leaders like Dick. He wasn’t happy unless he had ten things going on at once. His contributions to the area will be felt and appreciated for years to come.
Pat Cleveland
Gladstone, MI
Sharing in your sorrow of the loss of someone so special. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Dick’s contributions and brilliant mind will be sorely missed by the entire community and state. His entrepreneurial spirit and determination were outstanding. I can only hope the legacy he leaves through his business ventures will continue on in the future.
Warren Schauer, MSU Extension
Escanaba, MI
I only knew Dick for a short period of time, but had the pleasure of flying with him from Cincinnati to Escanaba on his airplane. In that short trip I was able to realize that Dick was a very intelligent, insightful man, with the motivation and knowledge to bringing his ideas to fruition. Dick afforded me my first and quite possibly only opportunity to fly an airplane…it was an experience that I will never forget! Thanks to Dick, all of the people that I came in contact with in Escanaba somehow might have received the impression that I was an actual pilot… The world has lost a great person, and my heart goes out to all of his family, and to all of the people that were fortunate enough to have shared some quality time with Dick…you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Scott Rinehart
Cincinnati, OH
I first met Dick as a young college student working as an intern at CCI in Marquette county 30 years ago. I count myself fortunate to have known him and called him friend for 30 years. Through our working careers and family I enjoyed his enthusiasm and zest for life. My wife Susan and I will miss him and offer our heartfelt sympathy to Bev and his family on this tragic loss. “Hulk” we will miss you dearly.
John and Susan Sandy
Marquette, MI
Dick is much more than just a boss, he is much more than just a friend; I love Dick like a brother. Dick truly made me feel like I was family. He was a great leader who had a clear vision for what he wanted not only the company to shoot for, but he had even a clearer vision for how to mentor people in order for them to succeed and grow in life.
Bev, I will continue to pray and support you in whatever way I can. I love you guys. You continue to show unbeleivable stength during this time and I know it is because of the faith that you have and the love and support from a great family and friends.
Dick, I will never forget what you have taught me over the past 12 years. I thank God for blessing me to be part of the VanAire family.
Bill, I love you man. You have many of the great charactertics of your brother. I look forward to getting to know you more during this next chapter of our lives. Whatever you need, I will be there for you.
Lisa, You are a great daughter and a strong source of strength for your mom. You have a great daughter that melted Dick’s heart. He was so proud of you and showed the picture of you and Leah to almost everyone he met. Thanks for being there for your mom during this time.
Kathy, Barb, and the rest of the VandeVusse family. I am truly sorry for your loss. Dick talked about his siblings quite often and was very proud of each of you. He always felt “kinda bad” for not being around as often as he maybe should have been, but he truly loved each of you.
There are so many things that I would love to say about Dick, so I will continue to tell of these things verbally for the rest of my life instead of taking up valuable space on this site.
“His dreams are still alive”
Tony Lambert
Escanaba, MI
Dick was truly an innovator regarding dissolved air flotation. His equipment allowed our company to improve its wastewater pretreatment and grease recovery for financial benefit. Dick’s kind and gentile nature was refreshing to work with and he was a pleasure to be around. Our prayers are with his loved ones.
Bob Behlers
Dakota Dunes, SD
Dear Bev-
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Dick was an inspiration. His entrepreneurial sprit, passion, and fortitude to do what is right is a code for all business owners.
Depending on the timing of ther services, I may be out of town on business. In either case, please know my prayers are with you.
If there is anything I can do, please feel comfortable calling on me.
God Bless
Les Cseter
Escanaba, MI
Please accept my sincere condolescences.
I only had the pleasure and honor of meeting Dick three times. Every time, he had left me impressed and inspired by his brilliant mind, boundless imagination, ambition and humility.
The strength of Dick’s spirit will surely endure.
Mike Olson
Houghton, MI
Richard was a wonderful man, I will allways remember his big smile and large laugh. He had a kind heart and was always looking ahead. Allways positive and ever looking at a new way to do things. Those of us that were blessed to have known Dick, enjoyed him greatly. He will be sorely missed. He leaves behind a legacy and many that can and will carry his dreams to full fruition. With great sympathy to his family and loved ones I will keep you and Dick in my prayers
John Caldwell
Kalamazoo, MI
I just met Dick the Friday before he went to the hospital. He had an amazing presence – friendly, compassionate, vibrant and full of challenge. I can only imagine how much of an impact he must have had on everyone who knew him and the community in which he was involved. You are all in my prayers.
Jeanne Shibley
Sault Ste. Marie, MI
To the family of Dick, It was such a pleasure to know him. I have known him most of my life as he was a friend of my family Bill and Ruth Chopp in Painesdale. He always called me sunshine and I have fond memories of him. God’s blessings to his family.
Ann Marie Lantz (Chopp)
Toivola, MI
We had the privilege of knowing Dick for 25 years and we will both miss him. It was no surprise to see his dreams become reality – the man was truly brilliant. His family lost a kind and generous man, and our state has lost one of its finest native sons. We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his family.
Bruce & Bunny Norell
Petersburg, MI