Richard Slagter

Richard “Dick” George Slagter, age 80, passed away on January 2, 2026. Born February 16, 1945, Dick was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle.

He was preceded in death by his son, James (Jim) Evan Slagter; grandchild, Alice Slagter; parents, George and Edith Slagter; parents-in-law, Floyd and Doris Terrell; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Fellows, Dale Kraus, and Rick Call.

Dick is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janice (Terrell) Slagter; daughters, Kim Slagter, and Teresa (Slagter) Riley; grandchild, Ashli (Slagter) Gilbert; sisters, Carol (Charlie) Jones, Mary Gossman Call, and Christy (Rich) Slabbekoorn; brother, Chuck (Julie) Slagter; sisters-in-law, Barb Fellows-Kraus, and Janet (Gene) Kuyt; and many nieces and nephews.

Dick proudly served his county as a U.S. Navy Corpsman, serving in five Vietnam campaigns, and continuing his service post-war. After his military service, he dedicated his professional life to education and advocacy. He worked as a Special Education teacher in McBain, Godfrey-Lee, and Kelloggsville, and later served with the Kent County Education Association (KCEA) and the Michigan Education Association (MEA).

A lifelong mentor and leader, Dick was deeply involved in his community. He served as a Cub Scout Leader, Boy Scout Leader, camp counselor, and junior varsity volleyball coach, always investing his time and heart in young people.

Dick and Jan lived in Japan and in multiple locations across the United States, building friendships wherever life took them. He was an avid fisherman, gardener, and outdoorsman who found joy in nature and simple pleasures. Known for his generosity and compassion, Dick lived a life of service - he and Jan frequently opened their home to others and made and delivered fruit baskets to help others during difficult times. 

Dick will be remembered for his kindness, quiet strength, dedication to service, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his service, teaching, and generosity.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Burial will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the funeral home.