Richard J. Wirtel

Richard James “Rich” Wirtel, age 73, of Wolverine passed away Monday, March 18, 2019 at his home. He was born May 1, 1945 in Wyandotte, MI, the son of Casmier and Elvira (Smelter) Wirtel. On November 29, 1998 in San Diego, CA, Rich married Laura Darin who survives.

Rich had owned and operated R.J. Transportation in Grosse Ile for several years before going to work for Michigan Foundation Company out of Trenton, MI. Upon his retirement in 2007, he and Laura moved to their home in Wolverine. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Indian River as well as the Moose Lodge in Grosse Ile and enjoyed boating, fishing, golfing, sitting on his deck and tending his vegetable garden.

Besides his wife Laura, Rich is survived by his daughter, Jillian Wirtel of Grosse Ile, brother, Robert (Sherry) Wirtel of Jensen Beach, FL, sister, Nancy (John) Giles of Rockwood, MI, three grandchildren his beloved Husky, Pacha and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, James Wirtel.

The funeral mass will take place at the Cross in the Woods Catholic Church on Saturday, March 30th, 2019 at noon with a viewing beginning at 11:00 am. Father Michael Haney, OFM will officiate. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family or the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are being handled by the Lintz Funeral Home.

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