Mr. Richard Arthur Valentine, 91, of Atlanta died peacefully on September 3, 2024 at WellSprings Lutheran Services in Fairview, Michigan.
Richard was born at home in Atlanta to Homer and Ida Mae (Canfield) Valentine on June 12,1933. He graduated from Atlanta Community Schools. The September after Richard graduated, he went to work for the DNR as a tower man (looking out for fires) and also doing maintenance. After being laid off each winter, in 1965, Richard was hired full time with the DNR in the fire division. He remained with them for many years until retirement in 1994. For fun, Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping with friends and relatives, he made maple syrup, raised bees for honey and ran a sawmill. On December 20,1952 Richard married Elaine Virginia Agren. They enjoyed 71 years of marriage.
Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine; three sons: Eric (Fern) Valentine, Dale (Barb) Valentine, Gary (Joey) Valentine; sisters Barb Hicks, Virginia Nichols, half-brothers: Rolland Valentine, Russell Valentine, Reid Valentine; six grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Illa Irons, Homer Valentine Jr., Jack Valentine, Ronald Valentine; a son Wayne and daughter-in-laws: Karen Stein and Donna Rice.
The Family will hold a private memorial for Richard. Donations can be made in the memory of Richard to: Hospice Angles 121 West Washington Alpena Mi, 49707
Arrangements were entrusted to Green Funeral Home. Condolence messages may be sent via or website at www.greenfuneralhomes.com