Richard Raymond Wetzel's Obituary
Richard Raymond Wetzel, 77, of Jackson, MI, passed away on July 6, 2024, at his home from natural causes. As he would tell everyone who asks, he was born on 4/7/1947 at 7:47 in the morning at Jackson Osteopathic Hospital. Richard grew up in Munith and graduated from Vandercook High School. In 1966, he enlisted in the United States Air Force as a linguistic translation and signal intercept specialist until his honorable discharge in 1969 as a Staff Sergeant. While he loved his work, he chose not to re-enlist to be available for an anticipated kidney donation to his younger brother, Michael Wetzel, as, at the time, the military did not allow organ donations while on active duty. In 1989, the time came, and he was the donor for Michael Wetzel’s second transplant operation.
Richard grew in his love of pool and golf during and after his military career, winning many tournaments. He also loved to play the guitar, often improving the songs with his own lyrics to fit the moment and make everyone laugh.
He attended Jackson Community College to become an HVAC technician, working and teaching in the field until his retirement. He often helped family and friends with HVAC-related emergency calls, donating his personal time, expertise, and connections in the field to ensure reasonable and affordable pricing.
At the annual Carley Family Reunions, he was the perennial Master of Ceremonies, always doing what was necessary to ensure that everyone had a great time.
Later in life, he utilized the VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, MI, for his healthcare needs and sang their praises about the quality and compassion of care he received from anyone and everyone.
Richard is survived by his niblings Luke Wetzel and Amy James. He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Belle Braden, parents, Robert and Joyce Wetzel, and brother, Michael Wetzel.
A memorial service will be held Friday, August 2nd, at Cascade Manor, 1970 Kibby Road, Jackson, MI 49203, starting at 11:00 AM, with lunch to follow. At the conclusion of lunch, the final interment will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Henrietta Township.
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