Richard "Dick" Lee Fish

Richard “Dick” Lee Fish, beloved brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on the evening of Tuesday, June 24, 2025. He was 87 years old.

Born on September 2, 1937, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Dick was the son of the late William Fish and Mary (Thompson) Sanford. A proud graduate of Lakeview High School (Class of 1955), he went on to attend Albion College and then earned his DDS degree from U of M in 1962.

After graduating, Dick served as a captain in the United States Air Force, stationed in Mississippi, where he put his dental training to work and began building a life with his wife, Janet Darlene (Keck) Fish. Married in 1958, Dick and Janet were devoted to one another until her passing in 2002. Their partnership was the foundation of a loving family.

In 1964, Dick moved his family to Boyne City, Michigan, where he started his own dental practice and became a cornerstone of the community. He retired from dentistry in 2001 but stayed active through his work in real estate and his many hobbies and volunteer roles.

Dick was a man of many talents and interests. He loved fishing, woodworking, and photography, and was happiest when spending time outdoors. Whether making maple syrup in his backyard, refinishing vintage furniture, or tending to his garden, he found joy in working with his hands. His adventurous spirit took him on memorable fishing trips to Canada and Alaska, and he never passed up a chance to gather with friends or spend time with family.

Dick also gave back to the communities he loved. He served on the board of Charlevoix Hospital, the Council on Aging, and the Raven Hill Discovery Center. His warm smile, generous heart, and easy friendship left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Dick is survived by his sister, Marty (Fish) Byrnes (Kevin); his sons, Kyle Fish (Michelle) and Corey Fish (Noelle); his granddaughters, Perry (Fish) Haselden (Kenneth) and Sydney (Fish) Wormell (Allen); and his great-grandchildren, Jude and Harrison Wormell, and Johanna Haselden. He was preceded in death by his wife, Janet, his daughter, Roni Fish (2018), and his sister, Cheryl Lynne (Fish) Emich (2023). 

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Boyne City Pavilion in Veterans Park. All who knew Dick are welcome to come share stories, memories, and laughter in honor of a life well lived.

For those wishing to honor his memory, donations can be made to Raven Hill Adventure Center, the Alzheimer’s Association of Michigan or Hospice of Michigan. 

“Somewhere you are gazing at these stars as I gaze. Someplace you see that same falling star.” - Roni Fish