Richard J. "Izzy" Israel's Obituary
Richard J. “Izzy” Israel, age 86, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, August 1, 2023. He was born in Muskegon, Michigan on March 7, 1937, to Richard B. Israel and Evelyn Harrinton. As a lifelong resident of Muskegon, Michigan, in 1956, soon after graduating high school he joined the U.S. Marine Corp where he excelled at marksmanship and displayed conduct worthy of officer’s school. Izzy was a very proud Marine and always displayed his commitment to the corp. On April 29, 1967, he married the love of his life, Janice Stolberg in Muskegon cherishing many years filled with love and laughter. He was a dedicated and hardworking employee that loved his job at Sealed Power Corporation for 37 years before his retirement in 1999.
Kind, and always wanting to help others, he put in extra time donating blood to the Red Cross, where he proudly donated over twenty gallons through the years. Izzy enjoyed being a baseball umpire and his woodworking hobbies making “yard art”. Above all, he loved spending time with family and adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren. His “gift to gab” will truly be missed by many.
He is survived by his wife, Janice Israel of 56 years; two sons, Michael (Mary) and Phillip (Angelique) Israel; four grandchildren, Samantha, Sarah, Dylan and Brooklynn Israel; two great-grandchildren, Grayson and Levi; sister, Joan Adrian; brother, Larry Israel; and step-brother, Bryan Israel. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Earl Israel. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Share memories with the family at www.sytseamfh.com.
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