Richard J. Melbow

Richard J. Melbow, 56, of Richland, died at home December 18, 2024, surrounded by his family. Richard was born August 23, 1968, in Kalamazoo to Peter and Denise (Dintaman) Melbow. He graduated high school and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Navy for 8 years. He worked as a supervisor in the Public Safety Communications department for the State of Michigan. 

Richard married the former Ruth Blair on August 28, 2004, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Sarah Bartkowiak, Ryan (Brooklyn) Melbow and Christopher Melbow and a grandson, Sylas (with another on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Richard enjoyed fishing, watching football and spending time with his cats. He loved doing home improvement projects/repairs and was always willing to help friends and family with their projects. Richard especially loved the holidays. He would host the family on Thanksgiving while preparing all the food himself. He loved giving gifts at Christmas time to his family. Richard also had a funny side and would often pull of pranks. When he was younger he loved to do woodworking. 

Funeral services to celebrate Richards’s life will be 12:00 p.m. Friday, January 3, 2025 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Richland Chapel. Interment with full military honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery will follow. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider World Vision. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.