Richard Oates, 84

Richard Eugene Oates, age 84, of Long Lake, Colon, passed away Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015. He was the beloved husband of Christa (Lambrecht) Oates; dear father of Connie (Brian) Demkowicz, Charlotte (Sean) Kelly, Dan Oates, Marianne (Tim) Loso and Jennifer Bowman; loving grandfather of 21 grandchildren; brother of Paul (Kathy) and Gene (Vivian) Oates; brother-in-law of Maxine Oates, Thea (Udo) Klabunde, Lisa (Ed) Drenovacz and Konrad (Sharon) Lambrecht; and uncle of many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by parents, Eugene and Margaret Oates; and brothers Thomas and Robert.

Mr. Oates was a 1948 graduate of Duquesne High School in Duquesne, Pa., and retired from U.S. Steel after 30-plus years as a management supervisor. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1949 and 1949 to 1950 in the U.S. Air Force and for seven years in the Air Force Reserve. Richard was a loving husband, father and grandfather, affectionately known as Opa. He was an avid gardener and loved to captain his boat and tell stories for the grandchildren around the campfire.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 3-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015, at Schipper Funeral Home in Colon, with a scripture service at 7 p.m. AMass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 19, 2015 at StMary’s Assumption Catholic Church in Bronson, with the Rev. Fr. Richard Fritz officiating. Cremation will follow with private burial of ashes at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made in memory of Richard to FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) or watch a movie with your family.