WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Richard D. Kilburn, age 80, of White Pigeon, passed away Monday, September 23, 2024 at Bronson Methodist Hospital.
He was born March 15, 1944 in Reedley, California, the son of John Richard and Eileen “Shorty” (Jones) Kilburn, and graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1963. He played football and baseball. He enjoyed hanging out with his buddies.
He was honorably discharged from the Military after serving as a Sergeant in the Army. He spent most of his deployment in Germany after being drafted during the Vietnam war.
Richard was a dedicated worker at Continental Can where he worked as the shipping manager. He finished his career working at Owens-Illinois. Through work he made a number of friends and they were what made it so special.
On July 29, 1967, he married Bettie Pendergrass. They were both dedicated to their family and their church.
Richard was an avid sports fan, especially of Detroit’s teams – the Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings. He loved to fish, and was a very active member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a loyal member, serving in the best interest of the church. He owned a Harley Davidson motorcycle and spent time riding alongside his daughter, Kim. After retirement he enjoyed playing cards with his friends and taking trips to see his grandchildren.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, Bettie Kilburn; daughter, Kim (Bill) Clark of Kalamazoo; daughter, Stacey (Brent) Brekke of Waddington, NY and their children Bailee and Cody; son, Glenn (Jenna) of San Tan Valley, AZ, and their son Wyatt; brother, Donald (Judy) Kilburn of Portage; sister, Patricia (Mike) Dailey of Stanwood; sister-in-law, Linda Stokes of Three Rivers; several beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tommy Stokes; and nephew, Tommy Allen Stokes.
A service celebrating his life will be held Friday, September 27, 2024 at 1:00 at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church with lunch to follow, 523 Maple St., Three Rivers with Pastor Mick Schmid officiating. He will be laid to rest at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.
Donations in Richard’s memory may be directed to Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Envelopes will be available at the church and at Hohner Funeral Home.
