TRAVERSE CITY — Richard Thomas "Dick" Eldred, 70, of Traverse City, formerly of Pontiac, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011, at his home in Traverse City.Richard was born Oct. 18, 1941, to the late Robert and Mildred (Deihr) Eldred, of Pontiac. Dick attended Shrine of the Little Flower, entering the Seminary for a short time before attending Notre Dame University in the School of Business. Dick began a career in banking in the Detroit area, but his career was interrupted by his call to serve for his country with the USMC. He was proud to be a Marine.Marilynn was a blind date, fixed for life by his insurance man, and they were married on Oct. 18, 1969, at Saint Hugo of the Hills in West Bloomfield. Dick and Marilynn started their life in Farmington Hills, where he continued his banking career for awhile. The ever-resilient Dick saw an end to his banking position and made the move, sight unseen, to owning and operating Traverse City's beloved "Bean Pot" restaurant.After his time with the Bean Pot, Dick tried real estate; helped to manage the Elmwood Township Marina; managed condominiums; and eventually began working with By the Bay shuttles, driving such notables as Michael Moore, John McCain and Bill O'Reilly, and even befriending Richard Simmons.Dick was a former member of the Traverse City Golf and Country Club, and could often be found playing a round of golf then playing cards with his buddies whenever possible. Dick was a people person, who would befriend most anyone, and loved to entertain those around him with his wit.He enjoyed grilling and eating, golfing and cards, driving his antique car and most of all, his family. The accomplishments of his children were a major source of pride, and he would boast whenever he found someone to listen. He will be often remembered for playfulness and outrageous stories of his youthful antics.Dick is survived by his loving wife, Marilynn Eldred, of Traverse City; his daughter, Kelly Eldred, of Traverse City; his son, Michael (Ancelyn) Eldred, of Kailua, Hawaii; his grandson, Mateo; his two brothers, The Rev. Robert Eldred, of Idaho, and Roger Eldred, of Detroit; and many other loving family members and friends.Richard was preceded in death by his parents.Memorial services will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Dick's brother, The Rev. Robert Eldred, will officiate.Memorial contributions may be directed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society - Michigan Chapter.Please share thoughts with the family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.