Richard Stankey

STANKEY - Mr. Richard "Dick" C. Stankey aged 81 of Jenison, passed away Wednesday, June 22, 2016. He was born January 30, 1935 in Grand Rapids. Dick is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda; son, Rick Stankey of Orlando, FL; daughter, Wendy (Larry) Austin of Grand Ledge, MI; grandchildren, Danielle and Roger Austin of Grand Ledge. He is also survived by his brothers, William F. (Lis) Stankey of Chase, MI., Ronald J. (OK Jung) Stankey of Cadillac, MI; sister, Nancy Harig of Comstock Park, MI; sister-in-law, Marilyn Stankey of Greenville, MI. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary Stankey and his brother, Frank Stankey. He is also survived by many cousins, nephews and nieces. After graduating from Wayland High School, Dick served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-57 aboard the USS Newport News, the flag ship of the 6th fleet. Then went on to earn a bachelor's degree in teaching physical education from Western Michigan University and a master's degree in teaching industrial education from Eastern Michigan University. He taught industrial arts and physical education for five years before employment in association management where he became manager of engineering education for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) located in Dearborn, MI. Later, he became the executive director of the International Material Management Society, located in Lansing, MI., eventually becoming the president of the Automotive Information Council located in Southfield, MI. He finished his management career as executive director of the West Central Michigan Community Growth Alliance serving economic development services for the four counties of Lake, Newaygo, Mecosta and Osceola, headquartered in Big Rapids, MI. A celebration of Dick's life with a time of sharing stories will be held 2:00PM Sunday, June 26, 2016 at the Stegenga Funeral Chapel - Belmont, 1601 Post Dr. NE., with visitation one hour prior to the service. A special thank you to Holland Home and Faith Hospice for their care and support. In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Faith Hospice. To share a photo, memory and sign the family's online guestbook please visit www.stegengafuneralchapel.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Richard Stankey please visit our Sympathy Store.