TRAVERSE CITY — Richard H. Hoag, of Traverse City, died Aug. 2, 2010, after a brief illness, surrounded by loving family. Richard was born in Escanaba, the son of the late Harold and Alice Hoag. The family moved to Traverse City, where Richard attended Central Grade School and met the love of his life Mary Whaley. After proudly serving his country in World War II, Richard returned to Traverse City and married his true love, Mary. He received a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, a master's degree in Education from Michigan State and worked several years in the Traverse City school system. After retiring from his academic career, he went on to become an entrepreneur. He built and ran several Traverse City motels, was one of the founders of Benjamin Twiggs and was a charter fisherman in the mid '70s. Richard had a diverse and colorful life. He and Mary enjoyed their retirement on the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay and in Florida, where they formerly maintained a winter residence. He enjoyed watching his family grow, creating things in his workshop, watching sports, especially football, and playing tennis in his younger years. He was preceded in death earlier this year by Mary, his wife of 63 years. He is survived by his children, Susan (Harry) Wiberg, of Traverse City, Kristi Messing, of Traverse City, and John (Karen) Hoag, of Bellaire, Texas; his grandchildren, Matthew (Lisa) Wiberg, Katherine Wiberg (Brian Green), Jane Wiberg (Tony Dolney), Alexander (Katherine) Messing, Michael Messing (Lee Elkouri) and Kayley Hoag; and one great-grandchild, Quentin Wiberg. A service to honor Richard's life will be held Sept. 25, at 11 a.m., at Oakwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 210 Beaumont, Traverse City, MI 49684, or the charity of one's choice.Please sign Richard's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The Hoag family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.