Richard Bailey, 74, passed away peacefully at Munson Hospice House with his family by his side on Sunday, June 8, 2025. He was born on February 22, 1951, the second youngest of eleven children to the late Elizabeth Theodore Bailey and Peter Bailey. His siblings who preceded him in death are Margaret Bailey Chandler, Peter Bailey Jr., Gerald Bailey, Carl Bailey, Regina Bailey Forbes, and Charlene Bailey, as well as a 1/2 sibling Mary Miller with whom he connected with later in life.
He is survived by his siblings Robert Bailey, John Bailey, Vivian Bailey Barrett, and Elizabeth Bailey Krick, as well as many nieces and nephews.
After graduating from Ferris State University, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy. While stationed in California, he met Karen Marie Hochecker, whose family was also living there with her father, who served in the military. Richard and Karen were united in marriage on December 6, 1975, and shared 50 years of love and companionship.
Richard spent 29 years as a lineman with TC Light and Power. He was a proud member of Veterans for Peace and the Warrior Society of his tribe, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, and he often marched in local parades with his fellow veterans. His dedication to his community and his service to his country and heritage was evident in all that he did.
Richard is survived by his loving wife Karen Bailey; his eldest daughter Kerri (Dustin) Collier; daughter Bridgett Bailey; grandchildren Cameron (Livy) Collier, Anesa (Ben) Byearski, Shenoah Collier, and Marabelle Stafford; and his first great-grandson, Garrett Byearski, whom he recently welcomed with great joy. Richard was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather. His family was the center of his life.
Richard had many passions. He loved bicycling with his granddaughters, playing golf and softball, boating with his family, and playing Euchre with friends. He was an avid sports fan, always cheering for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers, and regularly attending games for the Traverse City Pit Spitters and Beach Bums.
As an Elder tribal member of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, Richard was proud to share his knowledge of his heritage with his family. His teachings and legacy will continue to live on through his children, grandchildren, and beyond.
A celebration of Richard's life and luncheon will take place on Tuesday June 17th at 11 a.m. at Elk Rapids Harbor Jack Blesma Pavilion. Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to Veterans for Peace.