ROCKFORD — Richard Lee Kent, 57, of Rockford, passed away unexpectedly at home Tuesday, July 6, 2010. Richard was born April 16, 1953, in Atlanta, to James and Muriel (Cumper) Kent. In 1971, Richard graduated from Atlanta High School. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering from Central Michigan University. Richard's attention to detail and desire to excel earned him numerous leadership positions throughout his career of 27 years in the automotive industry.Richard earned his Black Belt in Karate, enjoyed marathon canoe racing, fishing, hunting, feeding the birds, playing guitar and being on the river. Above all, he valued his family.Richard is survived by his wife of 38 years, Patsy (Moran) Kent; his daughter, Kandi (Josh) Lannen; his son, Jason (Jennifer) Kent; his grandchildren, Christopher, Loryn, Kamerin, Ryan, Raegan and Chase; his brothers, Jack, Jim, Dave and Dan; and his sister, Naomi. Richard was preceded in death by his daughter, Vicki Lynn Steffens; and his parents, James and Muriel Kent. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., on Sunday, July 11, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, July 12, with visitation one hour prior, at Faith Reformed Church, Traverse City. Mr. Derrel Kent will officiate. Graveside committal services will be held in Oakwood Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be directed to The Kent Family Memorial. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, Traverse City.