Obituary of Richard Carl Schuler
Richard Carl Schuler was born in Dundee, Michigan on March 3, 1935. He was one of three sons born from the union of Carl Schuler and Florine (Kopka) Schuler. He attended Dundee Community Schools, graduating high school with the class of 1953. In 1957, Richard married the love of his life, the former Ruth Rigel in a church ceremony at St. John Lutheran Church in Dundee, of which he was a lifelong member. Together the couple were blessed with the birth of three children.
Richard had a love for fishing, and it would grow into a beloved tradition as he aged, particularly in Hessel, Michigan, where he rented a summer property for decades. Each year, he brought his family and on occasion, just his grandchildren for an adventure-filled time, teaching them the art of fishing and the patience and attention it required. The absence of their parents during these trips allowed for a special bond to form, with stories shared under stars and laughter echoing off the water.
His outdoor pursuits extended to hunting, a passion he shared deeply with his brother. Together, they met at the “Schuler Rigel Deer Camp” in Lewiston, nestled on his brother’s property, where countless hunts took place.
Beyond his love for the outdoors, Richard possessed a deep-seated allegiance to the University of Michigan's football team. As a season-ticket holder alongside his wife, game days were a much-anticipated part of their lives. Tailgating was an integral part of his game day experience, and the Dundee Tailgaters became like an extended family with whom he shared countless pre-game meals and celebrations.
Richard's family was the center of his universe. He made it a point to attend every sporting event and school function his grandchildren participated in, offering support and enthusiasm. As he grew older and his physical ability to attend these events waned, his commitment never did. His presence was constant, in spirit if not in person.
Richard Carl Schuler, age 89, of Dundee, passed away at Fountainview of Monroe on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. His passing was preceded by his parents; his wife: Ruth Schuler; two sisters-in-law: Martha Schuler and June Schuler; and a daughter-in-law: Janet Schuler.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his three children: Valynda (Mark) Mathis, Kevin (Darlene) Schuler, and Brian (Kim) Schuler; two brothers: James Schuler and Bernard Schuler; six grandchildren: Melissa (Dave) Boboltz, Daniel (Peter) Spadafore, Chelsea (Matt) Byom, Michael (Corinne) Mathis, Baleigh Schuler(Adam Kloha), and Brenna Schuler; seven great grandchildren: Brett, Jensen, Nolan, twins: Nicholas and Hannah, Owen and Riley.
Friends may gather on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 2:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156. Richard will lie in state on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 10:00am until the time of a Funeral Service Celebrating His Life at 11:00am at St. John Lutheran Church, 460 Riley Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131. A procession to Maple Grove Cemetery will immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the St. John Lutheran Church Stained Glass Fund. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the Pleasantview staff at Fountainview Nursing Home, for the genuine care and love shown to Richard.