Richard Dean Vaida

Richard Dean Vaida, age 75, of Caledonia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.  He was known as “Rick Steele” or “The Real Deal, Rick Steele” during his career as a radio DJ and music director for WGRD from 1977-1982 and another station in Lansing from 1975-1977.  His voice was recognizable on several radio commercials also, and Rick loved his career in radio broadcasting and advertising.  He was also a very talented artist and painter.

He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters: Christina and Odie Mills and Dawn and Dennis Heim; grandchildren: Emilee Diemer, Parker Diemer, Day Decker, Skylar Gehman, Jack Heim; brother, Albert Vaida Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Sr. and Miriam; brother, Jeffrey Vaida.

A Celebration of Rick’s life will be held from 11:00 -1:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main St. SE, Caledonia.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Kent County Humane Society (https://www.spcaswmich.org/).