Richard W. Callender

Richard W. Callender of Grand Rapids passed from this life on September 20, 2022. Rich was born to Aundrea Callender in Junction City, KS September 19, 1953. He is survived by his children Annemarie (Eric) Podell, Richard (Amanda) Callender and his grandchildren, Michael, Isabel, and Oscar. He was predeceased by his mother in 2019. After moving to Michigan, Rich attended Comstock Park Schools until his family moved to Strongs, MI. in 1969. He attended Brimley Area Schools and graduated in 1971. After serving in the military, Rich attended Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, MI. Upon earning his degree in 1984, Rich accepted an engineering job with GE Aviation, formerly Smith Industries in Grand Rapids. During his career, he achieved the title of Software Quality Assurance Engineer. Rich retired in 2010, after 25 years of dedicated service. Rich was a man of many talents and interests. He was always a happy man on the golf course. The worst day on the greens was better than a good day doing just about anything else. It was truly his “field of dreams”. Rich was always at home in a pool hall. With his friendly way and pool skills in hand, he could turn a few hours at the table into a version of “The Hustler”. Rich was a musician. He played harmonica and was an accomplished drummer. Without a word, he’d often pull a harmonica from his pocket and lend his talent to everyone’s delight. Over the years, Rich played gigs in the UP, Grand Rapids and family events. The only way he knew how to play was “in the pocket”. He was a joyful drummer! From a young age, Rich’s hero was Muhammad Ali. He could throw out an appropriate Ali quote in any conversation. A true fan, Rich admired the grace and the grit of “The Greatest”. Rich possessed a sense of humor, undeniably all his own. He blessed the young and old with countless smiles and laughter. He simply had a gift. He was a gift. In life, Rich was most proud of his children and grandchildren. He fondly had a special name and tradition for each of them. The light of his life, his grandchildren lovingly called him “Papa” and “Party”. Rich blessed his family and friends in life and memory. He will forever be missed. “Don’t count the days, make the days count” -Muhammad Ali

Tributes

Richard W. Callender

September 19, 1953 - September 20, 2022