B. Richard Templeton passed away on September 2nd, 2019 at the age of 90.
Born in Buffalo NY and raised in Decatur IL, the only son of B.F. and M.J. Templeton.
A graduate of Blackburn College (AA), Milliken University (BS), and United Theological Seminary (MTh). Mr. Templeton was called to active duty USNR during the Korean War. He served as a Radarman aboard the USS Roanoke CL-145 in the sixth fleet (Europe). After service he returned to industry, working as a drafting engineer at a local farm elevator company. Extending his education, he graduated from seminary to take several positions in the church. In 1963, he joined NCR in corporate salary administration for three years, moving on to work for General Motors Institute as a part of the MODD squad. Later he became Manager of Management and Organizational Development at Sperry Corporation. In 1982, he started volunteer work for the American Bible Society (ABS), being a National Speaker and Ambassador for the CEV translation, and at age 83 traveled to China to distribute Bibles and become a volunteer form BAM (Bible a Month), and ongoing supporter.
Mr. Templeton's love of travel and music and photography took him to 27 countries and all 50 states. His photo retrospective, "55 Years and 55 Images" was on display at the Traverse City Library in 2007. He was active in the First Congregational Church in Traverse City, serving as worship leader, church photographer, choir member, Bible study leader, and part of the Garden and Landscaping and Mission Boards. He has served as President of four organizations: MSIT, NMOS, PTP, and NMAC; he was a licensed pilot, and member of the President's Club of Hillsdale College.
Married to his second wife Karen for 47 years who passed in 2017, he leaves behind two sons, Steven (Stephanie) and Michael and three grandchildren. Also, from his first marriage of 18 years, two children Denise and Tyndale (Terina), and five grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at the First Congregational Church (FCC) in Traverse City on Friday October 18 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Congregational Church.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Mr. Templeton's family at his tribute page at
www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
.
The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.