Richard "Rich" Draeger's Obituary
The loving and fun husband, father, papa, brother, golfer, and mischief maker Richard (Rich) Draeger, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at his home. Rich was born May 7, 1948, to Walter and Beth (Brown) Draeger in Grand Haven, Michigan. Rich married the former Laurie Rycenga on December 5, 1990.
Surviving Rich are his wife Laurie, his son Joshua Eling; daughters, Lindsey Eling and Melissa (Jim) Webb; his grandchildren: Jackson, Savanna, Brohm, and Eloise. Rich is also survived by his sister, Emmy Woodard; brothers, Walt (Sonja) Draeger, Lou (Gloria) Draeger, Clint Draeger, and brother and sister-in- law, Ted and Carole Rycenga. Rich was the delight of many of his nieces and nephews, he always brought a smile to their faces. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law, Ted and Betty Rycenga, and sister-in-law Sue Draeger.
A graduate of Grand Haven High School and Ferris State University, Rich spent 38 years in sales for Harbor Industries, retiring two years ago. While Rich’s priority was his family, he would have gladly lived at a golf course. Having spent more hours than can be counted with terrific friends at Spring Lake Country Club, Rich never had a bad day on the golf course. He enjoyed every round and respected what golf taught him about enjoying, and making, the most of every day. There will be a hole in the hearts of many of his fellow golfers.
A gathering of family members and friends will be held at Spring Lake Country Club on July 2, 2017, from Twelve Noon until 2:00 p.m. to celebrate Rich’s life and legacy. Please consider the Junior Golf Program at Spring Lake Country Club for any memorial contribution you may wish to make in Rich’s name. The family is being served by The Spring Lake Chapel, 213 E. Savidge Street, 616-842-6100. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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