Richard L. Christian

CHRISTIAN, Richard L.
of Galesburg, Michigan Richard Christian passed away November 29, 2012 at the age of 81. He was born September 1, 1931 in Byron Center, MI to the late Roger and Dorothy Christian. He leaves his wife of 53 years, Arlene Branderhost and their children, Mark and Linda Christian of Galesburg and Jodi and Dave Weigand of Seattle, WA; 6 grandchildren, Bekah, Jena, Jacob Christian of Galesburg and Henry, Lina, Leo Weigand of Seattle. Also surviving are siblings, Elaine and Harvey Dykema, brother Larry and Mary Lou Christian, and Janice and Fred Souffrou all of Byron Center, MI; and many nieces and nephews. Richard served in the U.S. Army and spent two years in Korea until honorably discharged in 1954. He loved working and he loved people. He was a meat-cutter for over 65 years, starting at age 14. 35 years ago he became owner of Galesburg Meat Company that is now owned by his son, Mark. He continued working there until failing health forced him to quit about a month ago. He also loved to travel, and together with his wife, they visited most of the states and over 50 foreign countries and 6 continents. He was a long-time member of Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church and had served as an elder as well as on various other committees. Richard will always be remembered as being "a really nice guy" and will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Family will greet friends on Sunday, December 2nd from 6-8pm at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Galesburg Chapel, 145 W. Battle Creek St., and Monday, December 3rd from 12-1:00 o'clock at Southern Heights Christian Reformed Church, 4141 East Hillandale, Kalamazoo, where a memorial service will take place at 1:00 o'clock, Pastor Dan Sarkipato, officiating. A private burial will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Kalamazoo Deacons Conference or to Open Doors.