Richard Christopher Taylor

Richard Christopher Taylor, born on August 24, 1968 in Columbus IN, passed away on February 21, 2025, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Richard worked for the Van Buren Intermediate School District before co-founding The Crew Family Restaurant and Bakery in Portage, Michigan, with his husband, Robert Hren, in 2013.

Richard was a graduate of Lawrence High School and had a vibrant personality that touched many lives. Known for his playfulness and sense of humor, he was often teasing and playing jokes on family, friends, and guests at the restaurant. A dearly loved fixture of The Crew, he would often give favorite staff pet nicknames, and many of his guests felt that he considered them family. 

Throughout his life, Richard cherished the time spent with his husband, Robert, whom he partnered with since December 6, 1995, and married on January 29, 2022, in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Together, they created lasting memories and found joy in each other’s company. 

Richard loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, who were a highly valued and integral part of his life. He enjoyed traveling, particularly to Disney, where he and Robert made many treasured visits. His interests also included crocheting, baking, and a deep love for music, especially musicals. He had a fondness for animals, which added to his warm and loving nature.

He is survived by his husband, Robert Hren; daughter Tiffany (Darren) Ringler; son Zachary (Chelsea) Hren; grandsons Hunter Nolan, Joshua Mejia, and Eli Hren; and granddaughters Arianna Nolan and Elaina Hren. Richard is also survived by his parents Mel and Nancy (Smith) Wharton and his siblings Dewayne Taylor, Donald Brown, Terry Brown, and Ginger Muniz. He is predeceased by his brothers Albert Taylor and Travis Taylor. 

Richard will be remembered for the love he shared and the laughter he brought into the lives of those around him. His presence will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life for Richard will be held at The Crew Family Restaurant (5200 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49002) on March 24th, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. His family invites all who knew and loved Richard to attend.